Researchers discovered that hummingbird beaks can 'snap-buckle' to catch insects in mid-air, using elastic energy stored in the bone. This phenomenon allows for faster and more powerful insect capture than could be achieved by jaw muscles alone.
Researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum have successfully removed a molecular switch in cyanobacteria that prevents premature breakdown of energy reserves. This allows for the use of excess energy for biotechnological purposes, such as hydrogen production.
Researchers reveal that MLL-AF9 hijacks Myb to enforce aberrant self-renewal in leukemia cells. Inhibiting Myb results in rapid and complete eradication of cancer, validating a new approach for targeting oncogene addiction in vivo.
A new national collaboration of asthma genetics researchers has identified a novel gene association specific to populations of African descent, including the previously unreported PYHIN1 gene. The study also replicated four other gene associations with asthma risk, offering promising insights into the genetic roots of the disease.
A new microfluidic-based diagnostic device, mChip, can perform complex laboratory assays and diagnose infectious diseases like HIV and syphilis in remote regions with a tiny finger prick of blood. The device significantly reduces testing time and cost, providing immediate results for medical workers.
Researchers have developed a method to dissect the genomes of polyploid crops like oilseed rape and bread wheat, allowing for predictive breeding. By integrating sequence data from different sources, they created genetic linkage maps that can identify useful genes and accelerate breeding in new traits.
The CHO-K1 genome provides a better understanding of the genetics of CHO cells, accelerating the discovery and development of new recombinant protein therapies. The study identified homologs to 99% of human glycosylation-associated genes in the CHO-K1 genome.
A recent study published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that 70% of 8-month-old babies have a high salt intake, exceeding the recommended UK maximum level. High salt consumption can damage developing kidneys and establish poor eating practices that continue into adulthood.
Researchers at Forschungszentrum Jülich and universities of Kiel and Hamburg discovered a regular lattice of stable magnetic skyrmions on a surface, opening up new possibilities for data storage. The tiny formations, made up of just 15 atoms, exist without an external magnetic field and are located on the surface.
Research suggests that physics principles may be used to create complex crop-circle patterns, with some teams reproducing damage using handheld magnetrons and microwaves. Crop-circle artists are believed to use invisible construction lines to design their work, dispelling the need for traditional tools.
The study reveals that EphB-ephrin bindings activate metaloprotease ADAM10, destroying binding between distinct cell types and preventing cell mixing. This mechanism is crucial for maintaining tissue organization in the intestinal epithelium.
Researchers identified three new susceptibility loci for adult asthma in the Japanese population through a genome-wide study of 4836 individuals. The findings provide insights into the genetic factors contributing to asthma and may lead to more effective treatment techniques.
Researchers found that a quantum know-it-all can answer questions correctly even with incomplete knowledge of the subject as a whole. The study's findings raise new questions about the nature of quantum ignorance and its implications for emerging technologies like quantum cryptography and computation.
A new computational chemistry tool developed by Solvejg Jorgensen at the University of Copenhagen predicts the toxicity of biofuels without producing a single drop. The tool helps identify the safest production methods, reducing health and environmental harm.
Researchers at Rice University have developed a hybrid energy storage device packed into a single nanowire, which shows promise as a rechargeable power source for nanoelectronics. The devices have good capacity but require further optimization to improve performance.
Researchers studied sea surface temperatures to understand Earth's temperature trend, finding large variability that could mask anthropogenic warming. Meanwhile, a new study detected ionospheric disturbances caused by the Tohoku earthquake in Japan, with ripples in ionized gas nearly 350 kilometers above the Earth.
Heavy rainfall and gusty winds are expected from Tropical Storm Don as it approaches landfall in southeastern Texas. NASA's satellite images reveal powerful thunderstorms and cold cloud tops surrounding the storm's center, with rainfall totals reaching up to 5 inches in some areas.
A Phase 1 clinical trial is underway to test the safety and efficacy of TMC207, an experimental anti-tuberculosis drug with activity against both susceptible and resistant TB. The study will be led by Dr. Robert Salata and involves 32 healthy participants.
Researchers are investigating Fasudil, a drug that has shown positive outcomes in improving blood flow and reducing disease risk for Alzheimer's and stroke victims.
Researchers have developed a graphene-based device that stores information in ferroelectric material, increasing fidelity and reducing operating voltage. The device's high-speed performance is expected to overcome issues associated with traditional memory devices.
A recent study published in the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology found that low blood pressure during dialysis significantly increases the risk of blood clotting at vascular access points. Researchers discovered that patients who experienced frequent episodes of low blood pressure were twice as likely to develop a clotted ...
The hospital is participating in two new studies: one examining new treatments for wheezing in young children with colds and another investigating whether Vitamin D can help adolescents and adults control their asthma. The goal of these trials is to find better treatments for this common and often poorly managed condition.
A survey of 538 family members found that hospice care significantly improved the provision of care and support for nursing home patients with dementia and their families. Family members of hospice recipients reported lower levels of unmet needs, pain management concerns, and emotional support needs.
Mattress Firm Foundation is committed to raising awareness and funding for TGen's globalCure clinical trials, focusing on funding research and clinical trials. The company has already raised over $400,000 through employee donation programs and online fundraising platforms.
Researchers have discovered that certain grape extracts can protect human epidermis cells from UV radiation-induced cell damage and death. The study found that flavonoids in grapes inhibit the formation of reactive oxygen species, leading to a protective effect against UV radiation.
University of Pennsylvania chemists have made the first molecular binding measurement of radon, a dangerous radioactive gas. The team measured how well radon binds to a molecule called cryptophane, paving the way for future research on its properties and other noble gases.
A new University of Cincinnati study found that missed opportunities for HIV diagnosis occur in 157 visits to an academic emergency department, 24 visits in an urban community hospital and six visits to a suburban community hospital.
A new study found that a combination of two immunosuppressive drugs, tacrolimus and mycophenolate mofetil, led to less organ rejection and better kidney function in patients after kidney transplant. The results suggest that this regimen is the safest and most effective option for long-term success.
Researchers found that organic memory transistors retain their on/off states over a wider voltage range when heated, despite initial decreases in memory window. This temperature-dependent behavior could be useful for applications such as temperature sensing.
Researchers found that the area underneath the helmet and near the chin bar generates significant noise that reaches riders' sensitive eardrums. Future tests aim to design quieter helmets using the findings, which may be used to save riders' ears.
Researchers at the University of California, Santa Cruz, have made significant progress in explaining the unusual properties of high-temperature superconductors using a new theory. The theory, known as Extremely Correlated Fermi Liquids, shows remarkable agreement with experimental data from studies of high-temperature superconductors.
The Liverpool pavilion received over 770,000 visitors during the 184-day expo period, with 99% of visitors recommending it to a friend. This exposure led to increased interest from Chinese firms, with 75% of sponsors including China in their business plans and 70% expecting future sales/orders.
Valerie McCarthy, RN, PhD, assistant professor at UofL School of Nursing, is building on her research theory of successful aging, which emphasizes the importance of adaptation and transcendence. Her goal is to develop interventions to promote well-being and positive aging experiences among older adults.
A new solar cell design boosts electricity generation by 26% through bouncing light, increasing the potential of dye-sensitized solar cells. The layered structure, consisting of micrometer-scale spheres and nanoscale particles, enhances light absorption and conversion efficiency.
The study aims to investigate the pathobiology of acute lung injury (ALI) and develop novel therapeutic approaches. Researchers will focus on the role of sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) in lung cell signaling and inflammation.
Research reveals individuals with dyslexia struggle to recognize voices speaking their native language due to phonological impairment. The study's findings suggest that the underlying deficit in dyslexia is linked to difficulty processing spoken language sounds, not reading per se.
A study found that North American soybeans have a genetic treasure trove in the form of stress-resistant soybeans from a Swedish village called Fiskeby. The Fiskeby soybeans were highly tolerant to salt, aluminum, drought, high ozone levels, iron deficiency, and toxic soil aluminum.
Researchers analyzed golf swings of 10 professionals and 5 amateurs, finding consistent rotational-biomechanic elements among pros. Key findings include highly consistent peak X-factor and free moment, essential to power generation in professional golfers.
Researchers at the University of Bristol have received a major funding boost to continue their research into the pathological processes underpinning Alzheimer's disease. They have found that neuronal excitability is substantially altered in the model of Alzheimer's disease, leading to changes in action potential generation and waveform.
Researchers found that rapidly infusing cold IV fluid may not be effective in reducing body temperature quickly in children after a heart attack. This is crucial for minimizing neurological complications caused by cardiac arrest in pediatric patients.
Patients with REM sleep behavior disorder experience nightmares and increased risk of developing Parkinson's disease. A new study using brain SPECT technology found that dopamine levels in the brain drop quickly in these patients, making it a potential early indicator of disease progression.
Researchers found that ancient tides on the East Coast of the US were 3-6 times higher than today, while those in the Bay of Fundy were much lower, with a range up to 55 feet, indicating significant variability over time
Research confirms fast ripples as a reliable marker for the brain region responsible for seizure activity in children. Resection of brain regions with fast ripples and seizure-onset zones may lead to better seizure outcomes, suggesting a new surgical approach to improve treatment.
Tropical Storm Muifa has grown in size, with cloud top temperatures indicating strong storms and heavy rainfall. The storm is expected to strengthen over the next couple of days as it moves north across the Pacific.
The WHOI Ocean Science Journalism Fellowship program provides a one-week, residential experience for professional writers and producers to explore ocean research and its impact on climate change and human activities. Fellows gain access to new research findings and fundamental background information in various ocean disciplines.
A new tool developed by researchers at the Autonomous University of Barcelona predicts the environmental fate of pharmaceutical products. The model assesses the physical-chemical properties of drugs and their growth in use to determine their likelihood of entering the environment.
Researchers at Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf develop a system to recreate amyloid formation on artificial surfaces, providing insights into disease mechanisms. The customized mica surface exhibits hydrophobic properties, facilitating the formation of oligomers and fibrils that can destroy cell surfaces.
Researchers tracked Malayan colugos using accelerometer packs and found they glide to save time, but not energy. The animals cover long distances gliding, which helps them forage more efficiently and protects them from predators.
Modern humans arriving from Africa swarmed the region with over ten times the population of Neanderthals, leading to their sudden disappearance. The incoming group's superior hunting technologies, social contacts, and complex behavioural patterns allowed them to outcompete Neanderthals for resources.
A team of scientists tracked the movements of toucans carrying seeds from a nutmeg tree, revealing that birds disperse seeds most effectively in the morning. The data created a map of the relative patterns and distances of seed dispersal, providing new insights into plant ecology.
Researchers found that uneven temperatures in semiconductors can create electronic whirlpools and sideways magnetic fields, leading to a new effect on thermopower efficiency. The discovery could improve the efficiency of commercial semiconductor devices
NASA's MODIS instrument on the Aqua and Terra satellites captured visible images of light brown smoke from wildfires streaming toward the Great Lakes. The data revealed high levels of aerosols, particularly north of the Great Lakes, posing a health hazard due to pollution from Ontario fires.
Research from Brown University economists finds that voters are more likely to support recommended candidates after newspaper endorsements, but credibility matters. Moderate voters are most influenced by endorsements. Key findings suggest voters filter out media bias when making informed decisions.
A UC Irvine study found a 28% rise in physical ailments among those who watched the 9/11 attacks live on TV, while reports of doctor-diagnosed illness climbed by 18% in adults. The study highlights the impact of collective trauma on health.
A recent study found that exotic grasses are better equipped to adapt to warmer temperatures than native grasses in California. This could lead to the expansion of invasive species into new areas, potentially threatening biodiversity and ecosystems.
A growing number of countries are supporting Australia's trailblazing stance on plain packaging, while others align themselves with the tobacco industry. The legislation aims to break the affiliation smokers have with a particular brand, helping them quit and prevent teenagers from becoming smokers.
Researchers have developed a method to reconstruct neural networks in detail, using computer programs KNOSSOS and RESCOP. The team successfully mapped over 100 neurons from the retina with high accuracy, reducing the time required compared to previous methods.
Researchers at University of Minnesota discovered a gene pattern in dogs that distinguishes between aggressive and less aggressive forms of bone cancer. The finding may lead to the development of laboratory tests to predict tumor behavior in humans, allowing for tailored therapy and potentially reducing side effects.
NASA's GOES-13 satellite captured the formation of Tropical Storm Don, which strengthened into a tropical depression and then storm over two days. The storm is expected to bring isolated showers and tropical storm-force winds to Texas coast, potentially providing drought relief.
Scientists create genetically modified mice with a built-in 'off switch' for their serotonin-producing cells, which control breathing, temperature regulation, and mood. The discovery sheds light on sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and depressive disorders, two conditions linked to low serotonin levels.