The EXCEL trial found that drug-eluting stents are a viable alternative to CABG for patients with LMCAD, with fewer MIs and less bleeding within 30 days. However, more repeat revascularization procedures were required at three years.
An international team of physicists has developed a method using Ultrahigh Energy Cosmic Rays (UHECRs) to study particle interactions, potentially revealing new physical phenomena at higher energies than the Large Hadron Collider.
Researchers from NIST and UCLA have successfully created exotic topological insulators with improved stability at room temperature by infusing magnetic materials. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient quantum computers and other electronic devices that harness unique properties of electrons.
Researchers at the University of California, Irvine found that electroacupuncture can lower blood pressure for at least three days by increasing enkephalin gene expression. The therapy may be suitable for treating clinical hypertension with minimal side effects.
Researchers discovered that jumping spiders can detect sounds in the 80-380 Hertz range at distances up to 10 feet, even without ears or ear drums. This ability helps them respond to predators like the Mud Dauber wasp.
A new study published in Preventive Medicine found that people who can delay immediate gratification are less likely to eat at fast food establishments. The research suggests that assessing an individual's ability to wait for a larger sum of money may help prevent unhealthy behaviors and improve healthy food choices.
The Intermountain-Stanford grant program aims to accelerate research and improve patient care through seven seed grants focused on genomics, machine learning, biomarkers, and more. The grants will support innovative projects in research, education, and medical education.
Researchers have developed a new fiber that offers higher tensile stroke and is triggered at temperatures lower than its predecessors, with potential applications in medical devices and self-healing materials. The fiber's unique geometry provides greater flexibility and thermal expansion/contraction properties.
Scientists use fossilized pollen to forecast profound changes in plant abundance and composition globally by the middle of this century. One third of North American plants and more than half of European plants may face increased threat status due to climate change.
Researchers argue that treating gout to avoid symptoms may not effectively address the underlying high uric acid levels causing the condition. They propose a 'treat-to-target' approach to reduce uric acid levels to prevent crystallization and alleviate symptoms.
Researchers at Bar-Ilan University used network theory to map the human cortical network, revealing a hierarchical structure with different shells of low and high connectivity. The 'nucleus' shell, comprising 20% of nodes, supports global information integration and is linked to consciousness.
Hospitalizations for prescription opioid poisonings in children and adolescents have increased dramatically over the years, with a significant rise in deaths and intentional overdoses among younger age groups. The study also found that opioid poisonings attributed to heroin and methadone increased substantially in this age group.
A study by Columbia University's Mailman School found that 71% of New York State voters supported indicting police officers involved in the 2014 Eric Garner arrest after watching the video. This increase in support was attributed to the physical force used on Garner being a key factor in respondents' opinions.
Researchers developed a resource of over 5 million microsatellites for use in various plant species, making genetic research cheaper and easier. The study also provides guidelines for researchers using microsatellites.
Researchers found that Zika virus infection can severely damage the testes of male mice, causing shrinkage and reduced sperm count. The study suggests that this may have important implications for human males infected with the virus, highlighting the need for further research on reproductive health.
Researchers at Cornell University have confirmed a genetic link between mitochondrial DNA and autism spectrum disorder in children. The study found that autistic children had more than twice as many harmful mtDNA mutations compared to their non-autistic siblings. This finding may lead to better diagnosis and treatment of children with ...
The American College of Physicians recommends using corticosteroids, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or colchicine to treat patients with acute gout. The guideline also emphasizes the importance of diagnosing gout accurately to prevent misdiagnosis and unnecessary treatment. Additionally, researchers found that industry-...
A new microfluidic method enables the encapsulation of individual cells within microgel capsules, reducing the size and increasing the specificity of control. This breakthrough has the potential to boost efficacy of cell-based therapies and tissue engineering by allowing for more precise targeting and survival of encapsulated cells.
Sushil Kumar aims to create terahertz semiconductor lasers with precise emission frequency, improving power output and beam quality. His goal is to enable various applications including chemical sensing, disease diagnosis and remote-sensing in astronomy.
A new model of brain dynamics, extending balanced network theory, provides deep predictions linking brain circuits to activity. The model accurately explains experimental findings on neuronal variability in living animals, enabling potential discovery of neural signatures associated with learning or disease.
A team of researchers discovered that a specific mutation in the telomere protein TPP1 causes an incurable premature aging disease called dyskeratosis congenita. The mutation compromises telomerase function, leading to stem cell division slowdowns and tissue breakdown. This breakthrough provides a potential drug target for the disease.
A new method for measuring microwave signals was developed by researchers at Aalto University, achieving the most accurate measurement with nanodrums so far. This technology enables efficient transformation of quantum information between different frequencies, potentially enabling data encryption based on quantum mechanics.
A recent study found that children of parents with serious mental illness are more likely to live with a single mother or away from both parents, and experience higher rates of family dissolution. Schizophrenia had the most significant impact on family living arrangements.
The Brain & Behavior Research Foundation honored nine scientists with its 2016 Outstanding Achievement Prizes for their work in schizophrenia, mood disorders, child and adolescent psychiatry, and cognitive neuroscience. The award recognizes groundbreaking research that aims to improve the lives of people with mental illness.
Researchers found that adrenergic nerves control the daily cycle of immune cell trafficking, with T and B cells accumulating in lymph nodes during the day. This circadian pattern regulates the immune response, making mice more susceptible to infection when injected with antigens at night.
A study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that low and very high levels of 'good cholesterol' are associated with an increased risk of dying from heart disease, cancer, and other causes. Raising HDL levels does not appear to reduce a person's risk of heart disease.
A Johns Hopkins study reveals that former trainees from sub-Saharan Africa are leaving a positive mark on the African bioethics landscape, with many becoming instructors, serving on IRBs, or publishing bioethics-related research. The training programs have built sustainable capacity in Africa and fostered lasting networks of profession...
A recent study in mice suggests that protecting axons may prevent the development of neurological problems associated with TBI. The researchers used mice with a genetic mutation that protects axons and found that they did not develop vision or cognitive problems after blast-related TBI.
Researchers found that statistics on endangered species, such as population decline and territory size, can elicit varying levels of fear among the public. Those with rational thinking styles perceived all five criteria as similar in terms of risk, while those with low rationality scores viewed differences between them.
Researchers at Georgia State University discovered serotonin and arginine-vasopressin act in opposite ways to influence aggression and dominance in males and females. The findings may lead to more effective gender-specific treatment strategies for stress-related neuropsychiatric disorders.
Researchers identified HMGB2 as a critical regulator of cytokine and chemokine expression during senescence, which may have detrimental effects on tumor growth. Silencing HMGB2 suppresses the expression of pro-tumorigenic factors, suggesting potential therapeutic strategies to mitigate negative side effects of senescence.
Researchers at Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research used precise genetic tools to track neurophysiological deficits resulting from Rett Syndrome. They found that recombinant human Insulin Like Growth Factor 1 (rhIGF1) and bumetanide can reverse such deficits in a cell-type specific manner.
Researchers found that geotagged social media photos on Instagram, Flickr, and Panoramio provide valuable data for predictive models to guide land use decisions worldwide. The study shows that landscapes with mountainous areas, rivers, lakes, and population centers are most valued by society.
The Nordic-Baltic-British Left Main Revascularization Study (NOBLE) found that CABG reduced the five-year risk of MACCE compared to PCI for LMCA disease. The study demonstrated superiority of CABG over PCI in reducing non-procedural myocardial infarction and stroke.
A recent CU Boulder study has shown that mitochondrial division is a complex process involving at least three constriction steps and two proteins, Drp1 and Dyn2. The discovery changes the understanding of mitochondrial function and its role in cellular processes such as energy generation and longevity.
A new study suggests that Zika infection can cause testicular damage, leading to reduced fertility and low testosterone levels in male mice. The virus targets Sertoli cells, which are essential for maintaining the barrier between the bloodstream and the testes.
A Cardiff University study found that bedtime screen use increases poor sleep duration by over double, impacting quality as well. Sleep disturbance in childhood is linked to various health issues, including obesity, mental health concerns, and stunted growth.
Researchers have identified 12 specific DNA areas that influence the age at first birth and total number of children. The study, led by the University of Oxford, analyzed data from over 238,000 men and women to discover genetic variants linked to reproductive behavior.
A study by researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine found that progressively shortening telomeres in heart muscle cells triggered a DNA damage response compromising mitochondrial function. This led to cardiomyopathy and death in mice with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, suggesting new therapeutic targets.
Scientists use satellites to monitor seasonal changes in evergreen trees, providing a new tool to track the impact of climate change on northern forests. The research reveals subtle colour shifts that indicate changes in photosynthetic activity, which could accelerate or slow down global warming.
The American College of Physicians recommends using corticosteroids, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or colchicine to treat patients with acute gout. The guideline also advises against long-term uric acid-lowering therapy in most patients after a first gout attack.
Researchers at RIT are developing new, ultrathin, transparent glass membranes for in vitro tissue models and barrier cell studies. These membranes will enable easier physical and biochemical communication between cells, advancing tissue engineering and drug discovery.
Two studies published in American Heart Association journals found that regular leisure and commuter biking reduces heart attack risk by 11-18% over 20 years. Habitual biking as little as half an hour per week provides some protection against coronary artery disease.
Researchers developed a new molecular tag to visualize two signaling proteins' activity in a single dendritic spine in real time. The technique, combining FRET and FLIM, allows for high spatial and temporal accuracy, enabling scientists to study biochemical dynamics of proteins with increased efficiency.
Researchers developed a new, less invasive way to perform TAVR, making it more available to high-risk patients, especially women. The procedure has a high success rate and acceptable bleeding and vascular complications rates.
Researchers found that patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) who consumed more fruits and vegetables experienced better function around the time of diagnosis. The study suggests that a diet high in antioxidants and carotenoids may help minimize ALS severity.
UBC researchers created a new classification system to help police solve sex crimes, identifying subtypes of high-risk sexual offenders. The tool can predict characteristics of offenders and behavior before a crime takes place.
A computational model helps biologists predict minimal mutations for efficient reprogramming of signaling proteins, expanding the landscape for two-component systems in bacteria. The model connects interaction specificity and promiscuity, enabling researchers to design novel interactions.
Researchers are enrolling 60 obese children in an eight-week study to examine the impact of vitamin K supplements on their cardiovascular health. The study aims to determine whether vitamin K can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce lipid levels in the blood, potentially reducing the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
A study found that an online neurocognitive learning program reduced cognitive symptoms in cancer patients following chemotherapy. Participants who used the program showed improved cognitive function, reduced anxiety and depression, and better quality of life compared to those receiving standard care.
Researchers found that reminding people of close relationships decreases the need to anthropomorphize objects as a means of feeling socially connected. Attachment anxiety was also linked to this tendency, suggesting it may be a driven process to seek out support.
A study published in Infection Control & Hospital Epidemiology found that robotic surgical instruments are difficult to clean completely, with a protein residue remaining despite multiple cleanings. The researchers suggest establishing new standards for cleaning these instruments using repeated measurements of residual protein.
A new theory proposes a single high-energy collision as the origin of the Moon's formation, explaining its unusual composition and orbit. The alternative model suggests that the Moon condensed from the same material as Earth, resulting in their similar chemical makeup.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center have found that a low-oxygen environment can regenerate heart muscle in mice. This discovery builds on previous research that showed the ability of newborn mammals to regenerate their hearts, and demonstrates the potential for this approach to reverse heart disease.
A Penn-led team has discovered how some intestinal cells can withstand chemotherapy and radiation, providing new insights into the regenerative capacity of these reserve stem cells. The study found that these cells are in a dormant state, protected from damage, but can be activated by RNA-binding proteins to proliferate.
A new IU study reveals attitudes toward bisexual men and women have shifted only slightly from very negative to neutral. Bisexual individuals face disproportionate health disparities compared to gay/lesbian individuals.
Research suggests factors beyond sociality influence brain anatomy in carnivores, contradicting the 'social brain' hypothesis. Female lions have larger frontal cortices due to their social demands, while cheetahs have smaller brains that support their high-speed pursuits.
Researchers found that nicotine activates neutrophils, leading to the release of inflammatory molecules and increased inflammation throughout the body. This discovery has implications for tobacco-related diseases and may suggest alternative forms of nicotine inhalation have detrimental effects.
Researchers are developing a system using phase-contrast imaging and mathematical analysis to identify the best-fitting sperm, leading to improved fertility treatment decisions. This new approach aims to reduce distress and expense associated with infertility treatments like IVF.
Researchers at Hospital for Special Surgery have identified a population of stem cells called ADSCs that are reduced in number in the layer of fat sitting under the skin in patients with scleroderma. The study found that replenishing these cells with antibodies may reverse the fibrosis characteristic of the disease.
A new study published in JAMA Pediatrics found a consistent association between bedtime media device use and inadequate sleep quantity, poor sleep quality, and excessive daytime sleepiness in children. Children who had access to but didn't use media devices at night also experienced similar sleep problems.
A new research paper suggests that the impact that formed the moon also caused calamitous changes to Earth's rotation and tilt. The model indicates that the remaining anomalies in the moon's orbit are relics of the Earth-moon system's explosive past, with a large tilt of up to 80 degrees.
A new study from the University of Chicago Medicine found that social media platforms can effectively inform young physicians about proper antibiotic use, improving their knowledge and behavior. The strategy successfully directed medical residents to relevant clinical pathways, resulting in a significant increase in correct usage.
A new paper from Northwestern University researcher Adam Safron suggests that orgasm is linked to synchronized brain activity and neural entrainment, producing a sensory absorption and trance-like state. This understanding could change the way people view their sexuality, emphasizing the role of rhythmic aspects in sexual experiences.
A major international study found that drug-eluting stents are equally effective as bypass surgery for patients with left main coronary artery disease, with fewer complications. The EXCEL trial followed 1,905 patients and showed stents to be safer in the first 30 days after treatment.
Researchers used social media platforms to map locations of highly sought natural destinations. These findings can inform management decisions and prioritize conservation efforts, leveraging the collective value placed on these areas by the public.
Researchers at UCSB explore the delicate balance between coherence and control with a simple yet complete platform for quantum processing. They successfully integrated the control of three superconducting qubits, creating an artificial magnetic field that allowed photons to interact strongly with each other and the pseudo-magnetic field.
A study of 12 million Facebook users found that using the platform is associated with living longer, particularly for those who maintain real-world social ties. Moderate online activity complements offline interactions, while excessive online time is linked to a higher risk of mortality.
Researchers discovered a neural circuit in fruit flies that creates an internal representation of direction and velocity, allowing them to navigate accurately. This finding has implications for our understanding of self-movement perception in humans and other animals.
Researchers at Seoul National University have developed a new method to make convertible displays that achieve near-viewing capabilities without the need for eyewear. This technology simplifies and shrinks the architecture of the display, allowing for closer viewing distances and practical applicability to mobile devices.
A new study suggests that a widely available web-based program can help cancer survivors reporting cognitive symptoms. The 15-week program improved self-reported cognitive function, lowered anxiety and depression, and improved fatigue. Objective neuropsychological function test results were not different between the two groups.
Researchers discovered two distinct mechanisms of cell extrusion from epithelial sheets, with low-density cell crawling and lamellipodia extension being the predominant mechanism at low cell density, while purse-string contraction takes over at high densities.
A researcher at UTA is working on big data mining tools to integrate patient data for better prediction of clinical outcomes and treatment of diseases like cancer. The project aims to find biomarkers using image-omics and data-based techniques.
The Penn Dental team has created a genetic engineering method to improve plant-based medicines by optimizing codons in DNA sequences. This technique resulted in increased protein expression levels, with hemophilia clotting factor five to six times higher and poliovirus protein roughly 26 times higher than native sequences.
A study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that white coat hypertension is associated with an increased risk of heart disease in older patients. Researchers analyzed data from over 650 patients and found that those diagnosed with white coat hypertension were more likely to experience cardiovascular eve...
A study published in Nature Neuroscience found that nerve cells dedicated to hearing rely on surrounding context to properly interpret and react to familiar sounds. Researchers observed patterns based on a basic divide in the nature of nerve cells, with excitatory and inhibitory neurons working together to balance brain activity.
Current system may not detect outliers in surgeon performance, as low caseloads limit statistical power to identify high mortality rates. The analysis suggests that more meaningful outcome measures, such as patient satisfaction and functional health status, are needed for accurate evaluation.
A new study reviewing 20 existing studies found that bedtime use of media devices increases the likelihood of inadequate sleep quantity, poor sleep quality, and excessive daytime sleepiness. The presence of a media device in the bedroom also affects sleep, even without use.
A study published in CMAJ found that telemedicine, including text messaging and web portals, can effectively manage diabetes by monitoring blood sugar levels and motivating patients. The use of interactive formats such as web portals or text messaging was most effective in controlling HbA1C levels.
Researchers found that observers on aerial surveys miss some large animals, like elephants, due to factors such as herd size and habitat type. Their study suggests population estimates from aerial surveys are biased low by 13 percent, highlighting the importance of accurate counting for conservation efforts.
Low-level clouds in the tropics cool the planet by reflecting solar radiation, but their impact on climate depends on spatial pattern. The study suggests that recent observed trends may underestimate global warming due to increased carbon dioxide.
A team of researchers presented a new model for the origin of Saturn's rings based on computer simulations. The study found that Kuiper belt objects were destroyed by tidal forces when passing close to giant planets, forming icy ring systems. This process explains the compositional differences between Saturn and Uranus' rings.
A SWOG study found widespread detection bias in prostate cancer biopsies, affecting younger, healthier men and those with family history or elevated PSA levels. Biases led to inconsistent results on risk factors, highlighting the need for rigorous data analysis and caution against assumptions.
A study published in Gynecologic Oncology found that less than half of cervical cancer patients receive standard-of-care treatment, highlighting the need for improved access. Patients who received brachytherapy had better overall survival rates compared to those receiving only two components of SOC.
A University of British Columbia-led review of mind-wandering research provides a new framework for understanding thought dynamics, potentially improving mental illness diagnosis and treatment. The framework suggests that spontaneous thought processes, including mind-wandering, are essential for creative thinking and dreaming.
A recent study estimated lake-wide fungal diversity for the first time and found that each habitat type has a distinct community, with biofilms being hotspots for aquatic fungi. The research highlights the importance of considering habitat heterogeneity when assessing fungal diversity in water bodies.
Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a technology platform that provides high-resolution representation of RNA folding during synthesis. This breakthrough allows for the study of RNA folding in unprecedented detail, potentially leading to discoveries in basic biology, gene expression, and disease.
A new study published in Geophysical Research Letters attributes the 2015 West Coast record-low snowpack to unusually high temperatures, not low precipitation. The researchers used a crowd-sourced supercomputer to analyze data and found that greenhouse gases contributed strongly to the risk of snow droughts in Oregon and Washington.
Researchers have developed a powerful screening method to identify drugs that more effectively target and kill pre-leukemic stem cells. By mimicking the bone marrow environment in a drug screening assay, they identified a compound called 2-methyoxyestradiol that reduces survival of pre-leukemic cells without affecting normal cells.
Researchers silenced SIRT2 to accelerate the degradation of Slug protein, reducing tumor growth and invasiveness in basal-like breast cancer cells. The study revealed a direct relationship between SIRT2, Slug stability, and malignant behavior, providing new insights into treating aggressive basal-like breast cancers.
Researchers found that specific IFNL3 and HLA-DPB1 genes are linked to a boost in immunity to hepatitis C after childbirth. Women carrying these genes experienced sharp declines in blood viral levels, improved T-cell activity, and better control of the virus after delivery.
A OU researcher received a 5-year $3 million grant to study the impact of e-cigarettes on smoking rates. The study will assess how effective different types of e-cigarettes are in helping smokers switch from cigarettes, and what impact switching has on cancer risk.
Researchers at the University at Buffalo have developed a new method for controlling light using one-third of the energy typically required. The asymmetric metawaveguide technology has the potential to lead to more powerful and energy-efficient computer chips and other optics-based technologies.
The leaf-mining pygmy moths and white eyecap moths have a rich evolutionary history that dates back to the early Cretaceous period, around 100 million years ago. A new classification system has been established based on DNA analysis, revealing three new genera in South and Central America.
A team of researchers from St. Jude Children's Research Hospital has completed a detailed map of the genomic landscape for core-binding factor acute myeloid leukemia (CBF-AML), revealing differences in mutations that contribute to its diversity.
Researchers at the University of Helsinki discovered that gene therapy stimulating blood vessel growth in the heart can alleviate cardiac atrophy caused by doxorubicin. The study found that this treatment prevented blood vessel rarefaction in mouse hearts, providing a potential solution for protecting patients from cardiotoxicity.
Researchers found industry sponsorship may be linked to more favorable study outcomes, but differences were not statistically significant. Insufficient evidence exists to quantify the impact of industry sponsorship on research quality and results.
A study has found a link between chlorhexidine exposure and antibiotic resistance in Klebsiella pneumoniae bacteria. The researchers discovered that certain strains of the bacteria could survive high concentrations of chlorhexidine and develop resistance to colistin, a last resort antibiotic.
A new study published in the Bulletin of the Seismological Society of America suggests that a handful of damaging earthquakes in the Los Angeles Basin may have been induced by oil production activities in the early 20th century. The researchers found links between earthquakes and significant oil production activities nearby, but note t...
A study published in the American Journal of Human Genetics identified a rare genetic variation in the RNF213 gene that is linked to an increased risk of intracranial aneurysm in French-Canadian individuals. The study found that 10% of patients with IA had at least one of these variants, compared to 0% in controls.
Scientists discover that heme molecule interferes with macrophage cytoskeleton, immobilizing them and preventing immune cells from eliminating bacteria. Quinine, an existing malaria medication, restores functionality of affected macrophages, paving the way for new treatment possibilities.
The Canadian Medical Association Journal argues that a new health accord for Canada should enable wholesale change in the federal-provincial relationship. The journal calls for flexible approach to allow for health system innovation and federal funding to improve the overall healthcare system without prespecified targets.
Archaeological remains in wetlands are threatened by rapid organic decay caused by acidic conditions. Researchers urge reevaluation of site preservation strategies and recommend urgent excavations to retrieve valuable artifacts.
Alexander N. Zelikin, a leading expert in medical polymer materials, has been honored with the 2016 Lundbeckfonden Research Prize for Young Scientists for his pioneering work on hydrogel biomaterials and enzyme-prodrug therapies. His research focuses on developing innovative solutions to complex medical issues.
New research from York University and Xi'an Jiaotong University finds that vaccinating against dengue fever can increase the spread of Zika. The study used mathematical modeling to investigate the effect of dengue vaccination on Zika outbreaks.
A new species of fungal disease, Curvularia malina, has been identified on short-cut Bermuda and Zoysia grasses in southern US golf courses. The disease can cause black spots and reduce turf aesthetic quality, but proper diagnosis and management practices can mitigate its impact.
A new study shows that a novel, nonsurgical approach can help 3 out of 4 adolescent athletes with vocal cord dysfunction (VCD) breathe better during exercise. The approach involves visual biofeedback, breathing techniques, and performance psychology training, and has been shown to improve breathing in 75% of patients.
A cross-sectional study of nearly 107,000 Medicare patients found that older black adults have a 30% increased likelihood of readmission compared to white counterparts. Increasing nurse-to-patient staffing ratios may help reduce these disparities by improving health outcomes for all patients, particularly high-risk groups.
Researchers have developed a new method to record brain activity in living mice, capturing the dynamic activity of thousands of neurons in three dimensions. The technique, known as 'light sculpting,' uses laser pulses to illuminate and analyze the activity of neurons within specific layers of the brain.
Researchers at the University of Houston have developed a novel method to induce superconductivity in calcium iron arsenide, a non-superconducting compound. This breakthrough demonstrates a concept proposed decades ago and offers a new direction for finding more efficient and less expensive superconductors.
Researchers can now gather broad-scale ecological data using micro-unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), or drones, eliminating traditional pitfalls. Drones amass vegetation data for monitoring habitat restoration efforts, rare plant populations, and agriculture, providing large amounts of information with minimal effort.
A genetic testing error led to the misdiagnosis of long QT syndrome in over 20 family members, resulting in one tragic death. The case highlights the importance of accurate interpretation and careful use of genetic testing to avoid such mistakes.
Schistosomiasis larvae employ a unique T-swimming style when moving against gravity, which helps them reach the water's surface. By understanding this biophysics, researchers hope to thwart infection and prevent re-infestation.
MIT engineers have transformed spinach plants into sensors that can detect explosives and wirelessly relay information to a handheld device. The carbon-nanotube-enhanced plants send an alert when sensing dangerous chemicals, making them ideal for environmental monitoring.
Researchers found that basketball players scored more points after being presented with death-related prompts, boosting their self-esteem and performance. Participants who thought about death performed 40% better in a second game and attempted more shots, suggesting a subconscious effort to regain a protective sense of self-esteem.