The EPSRC-funded projects explore new uses for digital distributed ledgers in energy, healthcare and finance. The research aims to improve transparency, security and privacy while enabling disruptive changes in the economy and society.
Ants cultivated and maintained vast subterranean farms producing fungi, dating back to 30 million years ago. These ancient agricultural ants have evolved complex societies, with crops dependent on ant farmers for survival.
A recent study by hydrologist David Boutt found that upland aquifer systems in New England store about 70% of the region's active and dynamic groundwater. Thin glacial sediments, traditionally neglected as a significant storage reservoir, play an important role in storing water for recharge to alluvial aquifers and base flow to streams.
Midlife vascular risk factors, such as obesity and high blood pressure, are associated with increased levels of brain amyloid in later life, supporting a role for vascular disease in Alzheimer's development. The study used PET scans to examine the relationship between midlife vascular risk factors and brain amyloid deposition.
A Kaiser Permanente study found that mobilizing parent advocates through the Immunity Community program significantly improved vaccine-related attitudes, including increased confidence and knowledge about vaccination rates. The program empowered parents to communicate positively about vaccines without being confrontational.
New research reveals that limiting sugary drinks through portion limits can backfire when businesses offer smaller cup sizes with free refills, leading to increased overall consumption. In contrast, bundling large drinks in smaller portions appears to decrease interest in purchasing the larger option.
Researchers at the University of Leicester have discovered a massive, cold spot on Jupiter's atmosphere, comparable to its famous Great Red Spot, generated by polar aurorae. The phenomenon, potentially thousands of years old, creates a region of cooling in the thermosphere and has been observed to change dramatically over time.
A team of researchers identified the transcription factor RUNX1 as a novel therapeutic target for retinal neovascularization, a hallmark of advanced diabetic eye disease. By inhibiting RUNX1 with a small molecule drug, they achieved a 50% reduction of retinopathy in preclinical models.
Research by the University of Kent found that great crested newt eDNA can be used to monitor population size and environmental factors. This technology can improve conservation efforts and reduce delays in development projects.
Researchers use seismic data acquisition and multi-attribute processing to locate hazardous underground voids left behind by coal mining in Wyoming. The integrated techniques help identify size, orientation, and shape of mining voids, ensuring rapid remediation efforts.
Researchers developed a new method to evaluate the aesthetic value of landscapes using geotagged photos shared on social networks. The study found that landscape demand is highest in national parks, followed by farmland and cities.
A Cornell research group led by Eun-Ah Kim proposes a strategy to create a topological superconductor using transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs). If successful, this could pave the way for building a powerful quantum computer with approximately six times more qubits than current models.
Researchers developed a novel network-based climate stress-test methodology to assess climate risks in investments portfolios, considering policy scenarios. Combined exposures of financial investors' equity portfolios to climate-policy relevant sectors are large, amplifying risk through indirect exposures.
A new study using precision chronology sheds light on the origins of Mongolia's nomadic horse culture, revealing that domestic horse ritual spread rapidly across the Mongol Steppe at around 1200 BC. This finding challenges previous hypotheses about the development of horsemanship and its relationship to climate change.
A new study published in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry found that parent-mediated therapy can reduce emerging signs of autism in high-risk infants. The intervention, delivered through video feedback to parents, improved infant attention, communication, early language development, and social engagement.
The USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture has announced a $462,000 grant program to support disaster preparedness and response in agricultural communities. The program aims to educate farmers, rural youth, and communities on emergency preparedness and response through targeted projects.
Scientists have successfully developed a 1-bit microprocessor consisting of 115 transistors on a surface area of around 0.6 mm2, running simple programs. The breakthrough uses molybdenum disulphide, a two-dimensional material with semiconductor properties.
Researchers have used archival data from NASA's New Horizons mission to measure visible light from other galaxies, giving an upper limit to the amount of light in the cosmic optical background. The findings offer promise for future astronomy measurements from the outer solar system.
A large-scale survey found that over half of GPs in the South West report low morale, with seven out of ten intending to change their working patterns, including reducing patient contact. The impending shortage could lead to severe gaps in GP services if action is not taken.
Researchers found that only 3% of psychology journals explicitly state that they accept replication studies. This lack of welcoming replications may lead to a buildup of foundations of sand in scientific research.
A cross-cultural study confirms that media violence affects aggressive behavior globally, with violent media use positively related to aggression in all countries. The study also identifies exposure to media violence as a risk factor for heightened aggressive thinking and lowered empathy.
Legionella bacteria uses RavZ to disrupt autophagy machinery, evading host cells. Researchers developed semisynthetic LC3 proteins to study interaction with RavZ, identifying key binding site and mechanism of action.
Despite narrowing global inequalities in childhood leukemia survival, persistent disparities remain, with five-year survival rates varying widely between countries. The study highlights the need for improved access to efficient treatment and care for children with leukemia, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
A team of scientists has created a novel photothermocatalytic reaction that reduces CO2 to form useful carbon sources, opening new avenues for efficient CO2 conversion. The process utilizes powdered elemental boron as an all-in-one catalyst, light harvester, and hydrogen source.
Researchers identified R-LA induced cellular changes, inhibiting glucose production from non-carbohydrate sources. This study suggests a potential therapeutic approach for liver cancer treatment.
A team of researchers used computational modeling to understand DNA knotting in nanochannels, a challenge in genome mapping. They found that experimental results are not consistent with simulations, but the data may come from other sources.
Stevia stimulates the ion channel TRPM5, which is involved in taste perception and insulin release, helping to prevent abnormally high blood sugar levels and type 2 diabetes. The study opens up new possibilities for treating diabetes, but further research is needed before new treatments can be developed.
Professor Michael Farzan of Scripps Research Institute has received a $4.8 million grant to bring an HIV vaccine closer to human clinical trials. The project aims to develop an 'off switch' that halts production of antibodies and makes the vaccine safe for long-term exposure.
A study found that a gentoo penguin colony in Antarctica was almost completely wiped out after three large volcanic eruptions over the past 7,000 years. The eruptions from Deception Island volcano had a devastating impact on the population, causing ash fall and burying chicks.
A newly discovered pistol shrimp species has been named Synalpheus pinkfloydi in recognition of Pink Floyd's influence. The bright pink-clawed shrimp creates a loud sonic energy similar to the band's iconic sound.
Researchers from Hebrew University of Jerusalem develop novel system combining lasers and bacteria to remotely map location of buried landmines. The system detects explosive vapors emitted by mines, which are then recorded and quantified from a remote location.
Researchers have determined that fluorescent granular perithelial cells, which protect the brain against diseases, arise from endothelial cells in the circulatory system. This finding may contribute to understanding cognitive decline of aging and HIV infection of brain cells.
The study found that users adopt different personas unique to each social network, with demographics also influencing their portrayal. Researchers used a dataset of over 100,000 social media users and identified patterns such as women being less likely to wear corrective eyewear in profile pictures.
Scientists at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago have discovered a promising target to treat AT/RT, a highly aggressive and therapy-resistant brain tumor, using CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing technology. The PLK4 inhibitor has been shown to stop tumor growth while sparing normal cells.
A study of 500,000 Chinese adults found that higher fresh fruit consumption was associated with a lower incidence of diabetes and reduced occurrence of complications in people with diabetes. Fresh fruit consumption was linked to an estimated 0.2% reduction in the absolute risk of diabetes over 5 years.
New studies reveal that infants as young as six months old display racial bias, favoring their own race and rejecting others. Researchers believe this bias emerges without prior experience with other-race individuals, suggesting a potential starting point for preventing racial biases in later life.
Researchers developed a pill-form delivery system for DNA-based vaccines and gene therapies using a corn-based protein and chitosan. The bi-particle protected the synthetic DNA from stomach enzymes and delivered it to intestinal cells, triggering an immune response in mice.
A recent study by Michelle Nario-Redmond reveals that disability simulations often result in feelings of fear, apprehension, and pity towards individuals with disabilities. The study found that short-term experiences can lead to misinformed perceptions about the capabilities of people with disabilities.
Tropical Cyclone Cook was pushed apart by strong vertical wind shear, according to NASA's Aqua satellite imagery. The storm's maximum sustained winds were near 45 knots as it transitioned into an extra-tropical cyclone.
The study found that about 95% of the study area contained noise exceeding preindustrial levels, with elevated noise levels in important whale feeding grounds. However, quieter areas were also identified within national marine sanctuaries, which may provide respite for whales in an increasingly noisy ocean.
Researchers discovered that anthrax spores stimulate the host immune system by activating a distinct set of immune sensors that don't recognize the active form of Bacillus anthracis. This triggers an unfavorable immune response, hindering the body's fight against the bacterium after germination.
A study published in JAMA found that spinal manipulation therapy associated with modest improvements in pain and function at up to 6 weeks, with temporary minor musculoskeletal harms. The treatment has a statistically significant association with improvements in both pain and function, but heterogeneity in study results remains a concern.
A randomized controlled study found no significant difference in eczema severity for children wearing silk garments compared to their usual clothing. The results suggest that silk garments are unlikely to provide additional clinical or economic benefits over standard care.
Researchers developed nondestructive nanowire technology to record electrical activity of neurons with high sensitivity and resolution. The technology enables simultaneous measurement of multiple neurons and can isolate individual signals, paving the way for accelerated drug development and better understanding of brain function.
Scientists have deployed hundreds of seismometers around the Old Faithful Geyser in Yellowstone National Park to gain a clearer picture of how it erupts. The seismic data offer insights into the active hydrothermal system below the geyser, which could help monitor less predictable geysers.
New research from the University of East Anglia suggests that dealing with emotional exhaustion can sometimes boost happiness. The study found that perceived supervisor support and instrumental social support enhance happiness when employees engage in planning activities. This may help individuals build happiness from an internally str...
South Asian countries may benefit from implementing higher tobacco taxes, which could reduce consumption by at least one-third, according to a new analysis. The study also highlights the need for strengthened non-price interventions to control smoking, including bans on advertising and smoking in public places.
Researchers found that college students perform better between 11 a.m. and 9:30 p.m., with a 2:1 majority identifying as evening people. This supports recent university moves to offer more evening classes.
New research from Oregon State University finds that Latino populations face unique health challenges due to diverse backgrounds. The study highlights the need for tailored public health messaging and interventions to address health disparities within subgroups.
Mebendazole, a medication used to treat pinworms, shows promise in treating low-grade glioma brain tumors by crossing the blood-brain barrier more effectively than vincristine. The findings suggest a potential new treatment option that could prolong patient lives without severe side effects.
Researchers at UCLA found conscious sedation is a safe option for heart valve procedures, with shorter ICU and hospital stays, lower direct costs, and similar adverse event rates. The study suggests patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement should receive conscious sedation whenever possible.
A Concordia study reveals that four types of members participate in co-creation projects: communals, utilizers, aspirers, and tourists. These groups benefit from social connections, status, and improved skills, while companies maximize value with a balanced approach.
A new study from the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia finds that nearly 90% of teens with ASD obtain their intermediate driver's license within two years of becoming eligible. Most teens with ASD receive their license in their 17th year, suggesting families make the decision to drive before their teen gets behind the wheel.
Researchers at Oregon State University have developed a new, automated technology to analyze the potential for rockfalls from cliffs onto roads and areas below. The system, called a 'rockfall activity index,' uses LIDAR technology to map large areas quickly and accurately assess risks.
Researchers found that PID1 increases the killing effect of etoposide and cisplatin on medulloblastoma and glioblastoma cells. This study builds on previous work showing higher levels of PID1 mRNA in patients with longer survival times.
Researchers discovered a protein signature that predicts leukemia, which could lead to novel treatments. The activation of STAT5 causes competition among proteins, leading to acute lymphoblastic leukemia.
A recent study suggests that current CDC and WHO guidelines may not be sufficient to protect sewer workers from the risk of contracting Ebola through inhalation. The researchers found that worker inhalation exposure to Ebolavirus-contaminated aerosols in the sewer is a concern that needs to be addressed.
A study published in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease found that individuals with a genetic predisposition to Alzheimer's disease had difficulty distinguishing novel figures called Greebles, even when others could not. This method may allow for earlier detection and potential treatment of the disease.
A Duke University study found that individuals with multiple forms of mental illness exhibit differences in the cerebellum and pons brain regions. These findings suggest that targeting common mechanisms or risk factors could lead to better treatment outcomes.
Researchers discovered three novel genetic mutations associated with Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy, increasing the number of known risk factors fourfold. The study also revealed sex-specific differences in genetics and found that these genes can predict disease risk with approximately 78% accuracy.
The MIT Energy Initiative's 'Mobility of the Future' study aims to understand how technology, fuel, infrastructure, policy, and consumer preference will shape future transportation. The research team will examine various government policies, vehicle automation, and emerging mobility business models.
The first fully functional microprocessor logic devices based on few-atom-thin layered materials have been demonstrated, enabling flexible and compact electronic devices. The transistors made from molybdenum disulphide (MoS2) can perform 1-bit logic operations and are scalable to multi-bit operations.
Researchers have received £850,000 funding from NIHR to further develop the PPH Butterfly, a device that can stop bleeding and diagnose its source during childbirth. The device has already shown promise in treating postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), which affects 40,000 British women annually.
Researchers found signs of fault displacement at well-known rock outcrops in Colorado marking the end-Cretaceous asteroid impact. The study suggests massive seismic waves could have generated earthquakes as far away as Colorado.
Researchers developed a predictive tool to estimate nitrous oxide emissions from waterways based on stream size, land use, biome type, and climatic conditions. The study found that N2O emissions increase with river size and are dependent on human activity and environmental drivers.
A recent earthquake swarm in Bombay Beach, California, has demonstrated the difficulties in predicting the duration and impact of such swarms. The event, which consisted of approximately 100 small earthquakes between magnitude 2 and 4.3, highlights the challenges in modeling swarms and communicating their risk to the public.
A study by Maastricht University Medical Center found that up to 10% of patients undergoing euthanasia in Belgium could be potential organ donors. This estimate suggests that donation after euthanasia could significantly ease the organ shortage, potentially increasing available organs from 684 to over 1,400.
NYU Tandon and Michigan State University researchers discovered that partial fingerprints can be used to trick biometric security systems, making them more vulnerable. The study found an average of 92 potential MasterPrints for every batch of 800 partial prints, highlighting the need for multi-factor authentication schemes.
A new study found that language barriers, information overload, and cultural differences disadvantage some Latina breast cancer patients. However, no significant inequities were recorded in how doctors provide information. The research highlights the need for providers to be more culturally sensitive and patient-centered.
The new technology could enable teams of robots to conduct surveillance as a single entity with many eyes, detecting suspicious actors and activities. Researchers plan early tests on the Cornell campus, using research robots to surveil crowded areas while drawing on existing webcams.
A study of almost 3000 Finnish women found no association between religiosity and the development of anorexia nervosa. In fact, moderate religiosity may even have a small positive effect on body image.
Researchers at University of Queensland and University of Sussex have developed a way to recycle atoms, improving the performance of atom interferometers. This technique enables ultra-precise measurements of accelerations, rotations, and gravitational fields, with applications in mineral exploration, hydrology, and navigation.
The study successfully detected three magnitude 5 earthquakes since December 2016 without false alarms. Individual smartphones and 'smart' appliances could be part of a crowd-sourced network for earthquake early warnings in the future.
The US Department of Agriculture's National Institute of Food and Agriculture is providing $400,000 to increase women and minority representation in the agricultural science workforce. Eligible applicants can apply for funding through NIFA's Women and Minorities in Science program.
A new study published in Neuropsychopharmacology found that maternal stress during pregnancy may influence the biological clock for ageing in children. Telomere length in newborns was found to be shorter in mothers who experienced increased psychosocial stress, suggesting a potential link between maternal stress and premature ageing.
Scientists uncovered a genetic fossil record of extinct retroviruses in modern organisms, revealing how our ancestors eradicated an ancient retrovirus around 11 million years ago. The study analyzed human endogenous retrovirus T (HERV-T) fossils to understand the elimination process.
Researchers at JAX will study mouse models of inherited RPE-driven disease to identify potential molecular pathways for druggable targets. Their goal is to prevent, delay onset or decrease the severity of age-related macular degeneration and other heritable retinal diseases.
A point/counterpoint debate examines two approaches to controlling the opioid epidemic: increasing regulation of physician prescribing practices or better educating patients and doctors. The discussion highlights the importance of finding a balance between regulating opioid use and providing alternative pain management options.
Researchers find that eyewitness confidence can reliably indicate accurate identifications when made under specific, 'pristine' conditions. Low confidence, however, always signifies a high risk of error.
Researchers have discovered that gravity disrupts the symmetry of electromagnetic fields, potentially impacting the study of the Big Bang and its effects on cosmic evolution. This new finding sheds light on the nature of magnetic monopoles and the behavior of photons in electromagnetic fields.
Researchers identified kappa opioid receptors as key players in stress-induced relapse to cocaine addiction. A new medicine, norBNI, was shown to reverse relapse even a day after stress occurred by restoring normal GABA signaling via the JNK pathway.
Researchers at Zhejiang University discovered a new type of bubbling mechanism that generates periodic and aperiodic bubbles with unique properties. This phenomenon has significant implications for industries such as heat transfer enhancement, mass transfer, and bubble motion control.
The USDA has allocated $150.2 million through the Agriculture and Food Research Initiative (AFRI) to support projects addressing key agricultural, food, and natural resource problems. The funding aims to develop innovative technologies and sustainable management strategies for livestock, crops, and critical underlying resources.
A new study published in the European Journal of Political Research reveals that women's civil rights are essential for countries to become fully democratic. The research indicates that the failure to foster women's rights compromised any attempt at democratic governance in the Arab Spring countries.
Researchers found nonlocal correlations in natural systems, which are incompatible with principles of information and energy transfer. The study proposes a new method to detect these correlations, shedding light on the fascinating problem of nonlocality in quantum many-body systems.
A team from Japan successfully generated indistinguishable photons using a novel single-photon source, nitrogen impurity centers in III-V compound semiconductors. The photons' high degree of indistinguishability is essential for quantum information technology such as quantum teleportation and linear optical quantum computation.
The EU has awarded a €900,000 grant to the Helmholtz Institute Freiberg for Resource Technology to develop new technologies for sustainable mineral exploration and efficient resource extraction. The project aims to advance drone-based exploration methods and multisensor drones to map natural rock samples and drill cores.
Researchers discovered a link between indolepropionic acid and reduced risk of type 2 diabetes. A diet rich in whole grain products and dietary fibre boosts indolepropionic acid production, promoting insulin secretion by pancreatic beta cells.
A study identified 26 new genes linked to intellectual disability, significantly affecting patients' health and lifespan. The research adds to the growing knowledge of brain development and functioning, potentially leading to personalized treatments for affected individuals.
The USDA has announced $21.8 million in funding to address the outbreak of citrus greening disease, also known as Huanglongbing (HLB), which poses an imminent threat to US citrus production. Innovative solutions and research are being developed to combat this devastating disease.
Scientists at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital have successfully regenerated auditory hair cells in adult mice using genetic manipulation. The research marks a significant step towards treating hearing loss in humans, which affects millions worldwide.
A new study identified genes that may underlie differences in treatment outcomes for children with childhood absence epilepsy (CAE). The research suggests a potential link between gene variants and the effectiveness of certain drugs, paving the way for precision medicine approaches to tailor treatments.
Researchers develop new method to make nanowires with widths below 10 nanometers, using templated assembly and block copolymers. The technique enables mass manufacturing with existing lithographic methods and can be used to create complex patterns for microchip interconnections.
A study found that three-spined stickleback fish evolved the same genetic changes in their color-vision gene to adapt to dark and clear water environments. The research demonstrated convergent evolution across vastly different time scales, showing that mechanisms underlying adaptive evolution are predictable.
Acoustic habituation is a common form of sensory filtering that allows the brain to block out extraneous sounds and focus on important information. The Western-led research identified the underlying molecular mechanism that controls this ability, which can be regulated with drugs in animal models.
Biologists and veterinarians across the US are working with Illinois researchers to identify, understand and treat snake fungal disease. The team has developed a nebulizer treatment that shows promise in preventing the spread of infection, but more research is needed to determine its effectiveness.
The discovery of three new species and insights into a fourth indicates the Palaeothentidae family was diverse and widespread across South America as recently as 13 million years ago. The findings complicate existing theories about their extinction, suggesting it may not have been a slow process.
Researchers at the University of Helsinki have discovered that premature cell differentiation caused by a STAT3 gene mutation can lead to underdeveloped pancreas and early onset of neonatal diabetes. The study used induced pluripotent stem cells to examine the impact of the mutation on pancreatic development.
A team of experts led by Prof. Sabine Schrenk and Ulrike Reichert restored a centuries-old silk tunic attributed to Saint Ambrose, freeing it from its heavy glass pane in Milan. The silk fabric was preserved using a custom-made sandwich of wood, glass, and silk tunic.
Researchers found no statistically significant differences in tPA use, administration timeliness, or complications between SCD patients and non-SCD patients. The study suggests tPA is safe for SCD patients and could be used as a complementary therapy.
A new study by researchers Minah Jung and Leif Nelson finds that when firms share social responsibility with customers, consumers are more sensitive to whether a portion of their payment goes to charity than how much. This has critical implications for the design of shared social responsibility programs.
A new study finds that children born of wartime rape in northern Uganda often endure post-war violence, stigma, and social-exclusion. The children, aged 12-19, reported feeling safer during the conflict and experiencing greater family cohesion within the rebel group.
Researchers found that by 18 weeks, only half of individuals on cholinesterase inhibitor medications were continuing to take them. The study also identified the most common side effects, which were primarily gastrointestinal, and found that cost was a major reason for discontinuation.
Researchers at IBS discovered a new function of DNA repair protein SHPRH, which regulates ribosome synthesis in response to nutrient availability. The protein's behavior changes during cellular starvation, allowing it to quickly recover ribosome production upon nutrient reintroduction.