Researchers at the University of Toronto have designed the world's most efficient catalyst for storing energy in chemical form. The new catalyst enables the efficient conversion of sunlight into hydrogen, which can be converted back into energy using hydrogen fuel cells. The study demonstrates a more efficient and highly scalable means...
Researchers at the Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA) have successfully synthesized graphene nanoribbons (GNR) with perfectly zigzagged edges using a perfected manufacturing process. This breakthrough enables the creation of spintronic devices that can efficiently switch on and off with minimal energ...
A study at Florida Atlantic University identifies a gene, translin, that regulates sleep and metabolism, linking it to sleep deprivation and metabolic disorders like diabetes and obesity. The researchers used fruit flies to test the gene's role in sleep regulation, finding that it is essential for modulating sleep in response to metabo...
MeCP2 binds genome-wide using DNA sequence features, revealing diverse modes of binding largely independent of methylation status. Local MeCP2 activities explain gene expression patterns in neurons.
Researchers found that neural circuits in the striatum, a subcortical part of the forebrain, are involved in both pleasure and caloric value perception. The brain prioritizes energy storage over palatability, suggesting a link between sweetness and calorie craving.
A new editorial emphasizes the need for proper pain assessment and opioid prescribing to balance treatment effectiveness with addiction risks. Experts call for physicians to speak out as a voice of reason in their communities, advocating for safe and effective pain relief when medically indicated.
Researchers created a visual speech recognition technology that can accurately translate lip movements into spoken words, even in noisy environments or when audio is unavailable. This technology has the potential to be applied in various situations, including criminal investigations and entertainment.
A team of scientists at Linköping University has developed a molecular probe for early detection of amyloidosis, a rare disease affecting less than 200,000 people in the US. The probe detects small amyloid deposits that traditional methods miss, enabling earlier diagnosis and more effective treatment.
Researchers discovered that small RNAs and the Argonaute enzyme work together to fine-tune egg composition, supporting embryonic development. The study found that varying small RNA levels can precisely control material production in eggs.
Researchers found a link between stress center activity in the brain and arterial inflammation, increasing cardiovascular event risk. High stress levels were associated with more inflammation and a higher risk of heart attack, stroke, and death.
A new study suggests that the GOES-R geostationary satellite can provide more accurate hurricane predictions by analyzing brightness temperature data. The satellite's high-resolution data allows for a more detailed understanding of hurricane intensity, including wind speed and sea level pressure.
Researchers have identified a key gene associated with cleft lip and palate, providing a step closer to understanding the condition's causes and developing effective prevention approaches. The discovery highlights the complex interplay between genes and environmental factors in shaping fetal development.
Researchers create a borylation reaction using methane, enabling the production of complex molecules like pharmaceuticals without releasing greenhouse gases. The study aims to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and promote sustainable use of abundant natural gas.
A research team has found that engineered HIV proteins can bind key immune cells present in most people, which could lead to the development of a broadly neutralizing antibody-inducing vaccine. The study's findings provide an encouraging foundation for an upcoming clinical trial.
Berkeley Lab researchers discover organic molecules depress surface tension, enabling larger cloud droplets to form. This finding could improve the accuracy of climate change models predicting cooling effects of reflective clouds.
Research suggests that land bridges between ancient India and Eurasia acted as 'freeways' for the exchange of animals and plants. Indian Dragon Lizards show multiple origins in Southeast Asia, indicating a two-way flow of biodiversity. The findings shed light on the origins of modern species.
Researchers have deciphered an early step in the process of stem cells transforming into neurons, revealing a fundamental understanding of stem cell differentiation. The discovery identifies a new pathway, known as the PAN axis, which plays a crucial role in determining a stem cell's final form.
A simulation study published in PLOS Computational Biology estimated the true impact of infectious diseases like swine flu, which can be missed due to underreporting. The research shows that less than 10% of the Finnish population was infected with swine flu during the first two seasons in 2009-2011.
Researchers found a wide variety of genetic changes contributing to autism, including simple deletions and complex 'structural variants'. These mutations often disrupt genes involved in brain development, highlighting potential new targets for treatment.
A new report by The Lancet and Johns Hopkins University calls for decriminalizing non-violent minor drug offenses, strengthening health and social services for drug users, and implementing evidence-based approaches to drug policy. The report finds that the 'war on drugs' has harmed public health, human rights, and development.
Researchers found that cancer cells have a resilient ability to repair nuclear envelope rupture during cell migration, but this process compromises genomic integrity. The study highlights a potential weakness in metastatic cancer cells and an opportunity for developing novel anti-metastatic drugs.
Researchers designed a minimal bacterial genome containing only essential genes for life, consisting of 473 genes. The JCVI-syn3.0 platform represents a versatile tool for investigating the core functions of life.
Researchers at the University of Delaware have developed a method to break down glyphosate, a common commercial herbicide, using manganese oxide minerals. The study found that the mineral can degrade glyphosate and AMPA, a major byproduct, within hours, providing a potential solution to environmental concerns about these compounds.
Scientists at the University of Cambridge and EMBL-EBI discovered that four-cell embryo cells exhibit subtle genetic differences, indicating that early development is guided by specific decisions. The study used sequencing technologies to model embryo development, revealing distinct gene expression patterns in individual cells.
A study examined patients' willingness to pay for facial defect repairs, finding that large central defects were perceived as more valuable than small peripheral ones. The study used a socioeconomically diverse group of 200 observers and found an average 'willingness to pay' ranging from $1,170 to $7,875.
A new study reveals that yeast strains in coffee and cacao beans exhibit greater diversity than those in wine production. The findings suggest that these differences may impact the characteristics of chocolate and coffee from various regions.
A recent study has identified malaria's origins in bird hosts, with the parasite then spreading to bats and other mammals before reaching humans. The research, led by Cornell University's Holly Lutz, provides a comprehensive analysis of malaria's genetic code, offering insights into its adaptability and evolution.
Scientists have discovered that hybrid lead halide perovskites can recycle light, a finding that could lead to large gains in solar cell efficiency. This process creates a concentration effect inside the cell, enhancing energy efficiency and potentially reaching efficiencies well beyond current silicon-based cells.
A novel plant protein, HMGB3, signals tissue damage and activates an immune response in plants, similar to its human counterpart HMGB1. This discovery sheds light on the parallels between plant and human immune systems.
The study suggests that PSA screening should be extended and higher biopsy thresholds used to preserve benefits while controlling harm and costs, potentially making it a more cost-effective strategy.
A new computational modelling method developed by the University of Eastern Finland uses MRI data to assess the patient-specific progression of osteoarthritis in the knee joint. The study found significant degeneration in overweight individuals, with healthy cartilage thickness remaining unchanged over a four-year period.
Researchers adapted the IMPaCT model to an outpatient setting, introducing a new manual, staff hiring, and training. The approach reduced readmission rates and improved health outcomes for chronically ill patients.
Researchers in South Africa are conducting a medical trial focused on controlling tuberculosis (TB) epidemics. The trial uses a novel approach that combines intensified household tracing and screening for TB and HIV using rapid molecular technologies.
Scientists found that magnetars could boost the energy source of super-luminous supernovae, which are 10-100 times brighter than normal supernovae. Calculations suggest that rapidly spinning magnetars could power these extreme events.
Researchers at Osel have engineered Lactobacillus jensenii to stably express broadly neutralizing antibody fragments against the HIV-1 virus, offering a cost-effective and long-lasting new barrier to HIV-1 transmission. The engineered bacteria reduced vaginal HIV transmission in a primate animal model by over 63%.
Researchers identified a human enzyme called fibrillarin as crucial for henipavirus infection, suggesting it as a potential therapeutic target. The study's findings have implications for the development of an anti-henipavirus drug, and may also offer broader use against other paramyxoviruses.
Researchers at Osaka University developed two new gene modification methods, lsODN and 2H2OP, which use CRISPR-Cas systems and ssODN. These methods enable efficient and precise knock-in of large DNA sequences, replacing rat genes with human-derived genes, or generating humanized animals.
A new study found a significant association between high serum omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid concentrations and a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Linoleic and arachidonic acids showed similar protective effects, while gamma-linolenic and dihomo-γ-linolenic acids were linked to a higher risk.
Research reveals that smoking damages macrophages, leading to TB infection and worsening its progression. The impaired cells can't recycle debris, becoming 'clogged up' and less effective at fighting infection.
New fossils from Kenya reveal Australopithecus afarensis lived beyond Great Rift Valley and farther than previously thought. The discovery sheds light on the species' adaptability and distribution range.
A team of scientists has found that a star similar to the Sun could potentially create a massive eruption known as a superflare, which could have devastating effects on Earth. The research used data from nearly 100,000 stars to show that superflares are likely formed through the same mechanism as solar flares.
Researchers from Drexel University have created a new method for producing polymer nanobrushes that repel dirt, allowing for greater control over their shape and size. This breakthrough enables the creation of more efficient and durable brush coatings with improved friction reduction, opening up new possibilities for various applications.
A recent study found that ground-nesting bees on heavily farmed landscapes have a smaller size, with female bees carrying 40% less pollen. This may impact their ability to provision offspring and lead to population decline.
A study of 10,533 kidney transplant recipients found that nearly half visited an emergency department within 2 years, with younger age, female patients, and public insurance being significant risk factors. The findings highlight the need for coordinated care for this vulnerable patient population.
Researchers found that human ancestors had impaired nasal air conditioning, but their pharyngeal cavities could compensate. This led to the diversification of early Homo and their ability to explore Africa's more severe climates.
An international team led by the University of Leicester has identified 12 giant super-eruptions between 8 and 12 million years ago in the United States. The research suggests that these eruptions were significantly larger than previously thought, with one estimated to have exceeded 1,900 km3 in volume.
Researchers found that flies exhibit anxiety-like behaviors in response to heat stress, solitary confinement, and Valium treatment. The study identifies several new genes related to anxiety behavior in flies, shedding light on the evolutionary origins of anxiety.
Higher concentrations of BPA in pregnant mothers' blood are associated with an increased risk of preterm birth. The study found that women with higher BPA levels were more likely to deliver their babies early compared to those with lower levels.
A new study found that leptin inhibits the development of neuronal connections between the brain and pancreas during embryonic development. This breakdown in communication can lead to impaired glucose regulation and increase the risk of type 2 diabetes in children, particularly those born to obese mothers.
Researchers at Kyoto University have discovered a method to replace surface ions of copper oxide nanocrystals with sodium sulfide, transforming them into hollow copper sulfide nanocages. This process allows for the creation of cadmium sulfide and zinc sulfide nanocages through subsequent chemical conversions.
A new study analyzing over 16,500 vertebrates found that species adapted to daily temperature fluctuations have smaller elevational range sizes, unlike those adapted to seasonal changes. This research suggests specialist species are favored in settings with dominant daily temperature variations.
University of Missouri researchers analyzed historical forest surveys from the 1800s to gain insights into how natural disturbances and human actions shape forest conditions. They found that historical forests had more total biomass, likely sequestering more carbon than current forests.
Researchers at Bielefeld University have developed an open source software solution to process raw data from ultra-high resolution fluorescence microscopy. This technology allows for the attainment of higher resolutions than physical limits, enabling the study of dynamic processes in living cells.
The NSF has awarded a $5.9 million grant to develop and curate the NSF Arctic Data Center, a repository for Arctic scientific data preservation and discovery. The center will offer features like search filters, map-based overview, and seamless data uploading, supporting open, reproducible science in the Arctic.
A new biotechnology discovered by ASU researchers enhances plant tolerance to stress, improving water and nutrient use. This leads to increased biomass and yield, reducing the need for fertilizers and other resources.
Researchers have discovered an HIV-fighting immunogen called eOD-GT8 that shows extraordinary binding affinity for naïve human B cells, outperforming previous candidates by a factor of 2100. Approximately 96% of humans harbor B cells sensitive to this immunogen, suggesting its potential as a viable HIV vaccine strategy.
Researchers sequenced Zika virus genomes from Brazil to estimate a single entry point into the Americas, likely between May and December 2013. This timing correlates with major cultural events and increased air travel from Zika-endemic regions.
Researchers at the University of Central Florida have developed new liquid crystal formulations that enable LCD displays in cars to function in a wider temperature range. The breakthrough allows screens to maintain speed and brightness in extreme environments.
A study of nearly 670,000 hospital deaths among people aged 85 and over found that 62% still die in hospital, with those living in deprived areas more likely to do so. The research suggests that palliative care should be tailored to the needs of older patients, particularly those who live in care homes or have dementia.
A study of 3,900 patients reveals a decline in age and an increase in obesity rates among those suffering from severe heart attacks. The findings highlight the need for greater emphasis on preventive lifestyle changes to address rising risk factors such as smoking, high blood pressure, and diabetes.