Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a new electrochemical process to clean mercury from water, reducing its content by over 99%. The technique uses a platinum electrode to form an alloy with mercury, creating a stable and recyclable material.
Researchers have created updated climate models for the seven planets around TRAPPIST-1, revealing unexpected similarities and differences with our solar system. The study suggests that some planets may have evolved like Venus due to an extremely hot early stellar phase, while others could be habitable ocean worlds.
A new study predicts that climate change will lead to a decline of 78-100% in European truffle production between 2071 and 2100, with significant economic and social impacts. The study highlights the need for conservational initiatives and management strategies to mitigate soil temperature fluctuations and conserve soil moisture.
A study reveals that current screening tools can miss severe infections in pregnant women, highlighting the need for better identification and timely interventions. Simple measures such as frequent vital sign reassessment and prompt antibiotic administration within an hour of diagnosis can significantly reduce maternal deaths.
Scientists have identified a new DNA recombination process in Alzheimer's disease brains, producing thousands of previously unknown gene variations. The process, requiring an enzyme found in HIV, may hold a key to developing new treatments for the disease.
Researchers from the BrainGate consortium demonstrate a brain-computer interface that allows people with paralysis to navigate and interact with off-the-shelf tablet devices. Participants were able to perform various tasks, including messaging, browsing, and music playback, with accuracy and speed.
Cornell University and Uber researchers developed a system to optimize bike docking stations and create an incentive scheme to crowdsource rebalancing. The approach improved performance in New York City and San Francisco, reducing costs and environmental impact.
A new animal model of age-related macular degeneration has been developed, allowing researchers to study the environmental risk factors that promote the condition. The model replicates aspects of human AMD, including lipid accumulation and inflammation, which can lead to vision loss.
MIT engineers have built and flown the first-ever plane with no moving parts, powered by an 'ionic wind' that generates enough thrust to propel the aircraft over a sustained flight. The lightweight aircraft is silent, doesn't depend on fossil fuels, and produces zero combustion emissions.
A global team of investigators has identified protocadherin-1 (PCDH1) as a crucial protein involved in Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), a serious respiratory disease. The study, published in Nature, reveals that PCDH1 facilitates lung cell infection and triggers HPS, providing a viable target for blocking the disease.
Researchers found that protocadherin-1 (PCDH1) is essential for hantavirus infection of lung cells. Disrupting this recognition event could lead to a therapeutic against hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS). The study, supported by NIH funding, used monoclonal antibodies to block virus entry and showed promising results in hamster models.
Research published in Experimental Physiology reveals smoking during pregnancy increases the likelihood of a baby becoming obese. Higher levels of chemerin, a protein associated with obesity, were found in infants whose mothers smoked during pregnancy. Reduced DNA methylation was also linked to increased expression of this protein.
Researchers discovered the hierarchical structure of whale baleen contributes to its unique fracture behavior. The nanoscale structure increases stiffness and strength, while microscale tubular lamellae control crack propagation, making it an ideal material for marine applications.
A study published in eNeuro found that percussionists outperformed brass players and color guards in detecting the order of moving stimuli. Musical training was shown to shape cortical areas responsible for synchronizing rhythm and behavior.
Researchers found that bees' speed decreases when entering a turn and increases when exiting, allowing them to maintain constant centripetal acceleration. Bees manage their speed to reduce 'sideslips' caused by excess centrifugal force, making turns with sharp forces more manageable.
Environmental organizations and social movements in Chile played a crucial role in fostering renewable energy policy, according to a new study. The authors argue that 'contingent coalitions' - collective actors with shared interests - were instrumental in promoting innovative policies and increasing the political clout of these groups.
University of Michigan researchers have developed a new building block that can serve as a safer alternative for the development of new medicines. The novel compound is produced using visible light and does not produce harmful metabolites like traditional anilines.
A new study finds that British children with intellectual disabilities are more likely to live in areas with high outdoor air pollution, such as diesel particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide. This increased exposure may impede cognitive development and contribute to the higher risk of intellectual disability.
Researchers from ITMO University developed a method to enhance enzyme activity using radio frequency radiation, resulting in acceleration of enzymatic processes. The technique uses magnetic nanoparticles to adsorb radio emission and convert it to heat, stabilizing the enzyme and allowing for remote control of biochemical systems.
A six-week mindfulness-meditation training program significantly reduced subjective distress and life dissatisfaction in mildly stressed adults. The effects were mediated by a reduction in perceived stress, supporting the theory that mindfulness facilitates acceptance of internal reactions to stressors.
A study of over 110,000 respondents found that morbid obesity was strongly associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in never-smokers. In particular, among older women, those with morbid obesity had a higher prevalence of COPD compared to their normal-weight peers.
A 15-year study of thousands of children reveals that core language skills are stable from infancy to adolescence, with early intervention recommended for lagging development. Individual differences in language competency persist over time, emphasizing the importance of timely interventions.
Scientists have defied the long-held principle of magnetic coupling by creating a device that behaves like an electric diode, potentially leading to improved wireless power transfer technologies. This breakthrough could enhance the efficiency of recharging phones, laptops, and cars.
Researchers emphasize the importance of collecting SOGI data to provide culturally sensitive care for LGBTQ+ patients, who face unique health disparities. Standardized data collection can impact nearly every aspect of clinical reasoning and management decisions.
Researchers found that between 25-60% of young people with psychotic experiences would not have developed them without childhood trauma. The study used the Bristol Children of the 90s longitudinal data, examining 4,433 participants at age 18.
A new study found that cardiac surgery was associated with a 56% reduction in mortality, while in-hospital addictions counselling resulted in a 72% reduction. Both interventions showed significant benefits for patients who inject drugs with first-episode endocarditis.
Researchers have developed a new method to replicate complex natural tessellations on surface meshes using layered fields and sparse linear algebra kernels. The algorithm is platform-independent, concise, and achieves considerable performance gains over existing serial Voronoi diagram codes.
A new advance in battery design has been made by Osaka University researchers who developed a material with highly mobile potassium ions that can easily migrate in response to electric fields. This work may lead to cheaper and safer replacements for lithium-ion batteries, benefiting electric cars and consumer electronics.
New research suggests that negative social cues on tobacco packaging can trigger feelings of self-consciousness in smokers, particularly those who don't see smoking as identity-relevant. The study found that isolating smokers from positive social associations with smoking can be an effective tool to reduce smoking intentions.
A new study led by the University of Queensland and University of South Australia found that zinc oxide nanoparticles used in sunscreen do not penetrate the skin or cause cellular toxicity after repeated applications. The research refutes widespread claims about the safety of nanoparticulate-based sunscreens.
Researchers have found that electroencephalography (EEG) can identify patients who are cognitively aware but unable to respond due to severe brain injury. The study suggests that EEG may be used as a cost-effective screening tool to help stratify patients and identify those with high levels of cognitive function.
A UCSF study found that kindergarten friendships can promote better behavior in children with harshly parented backgrounds. Warm relationships with peers and teachers also mitigate adverse effects, suggesting that treating oppositional defiant disorder outside the family environment may be helpful.
Researchers found that non-invasive skin autofluorescence measurement can predict future risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and mortality. A single measurement was associated with a 3-fold increase in risk of type 2 diabetes or CVD.
A clinical study conducted by Wake Forest School of Medicine shows that Cereset's HIRREM technology significantly reduces symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in military personnel. The study also found improvements in brain function and reduced symptoms lasting at least six months.
A new immunomodulatory drug, EAPB0503, shows potent in vitro activity against two strains causing cutaneous leishmaniasis. The treatment has the potential to overcome limitations of existing therapies, which include painful injections and high costs.
Nurses can collect and analyze data using smartphone applications, leading to improvements in data quality and better health outcomes for patients with HIV/AIDS. A larger selection of apps is needed to scale up mHealth innovations and combat the pandemic.
A new Research Training Group will develop computer-based tools for cancer research, addressing key challenges in data analysis and interpretation. The program aims to promote international networking and provide comprehensive training for researchers.
New research by the Work Foundation finds that many businesses are failing to maximise the value of employee benefits for low earners. The report recommends a 'framework of good practice' outlining 7 steps to take, including securing commitment among business leaders and providing additional support to inform choice. By embracing these...
Researchers analyzed the cost drop of solar photovoltaic modules over four decades, attributing it to improved conversion efficiency and government policies. The study suggests that having multiple 'knobs' to turn can lead to steady cost declines in technology.
Researchers found that adults who received early life educational interventions displayed high levels of fairness in social interactions, even when being fair came at a personal cost. Participants who received intensive education showed positive effects on social decision-making more than four decades later.
Researchers identified a gene mutation in SGLT1 that helps protect against spikes in glucose levels, resulting in lower incidence of obesity, diabetes, death, and heart failure. The study's findings suggest potential therapeutic targets for metabolic disease.
Researchers found that antidepressant prescriptions rose by 13.4% after the Brexit vote, potentially due to increased uncertainty among some populations. Strengthening mental health service provision during such periods is advised.
Recent studies suggest that biomedical research is becoming more transparent and reproducible, with a significant increase in data sharing and funding disclosure. However, the authors argue that there is still much to be done to improve research practices, particularly in terms of protocol sharing.
A comprehensive analysis found a strong inverse relationship between vaping and smoking among youth and young adults. Vaping became more popular around 2014, resulting in accelerated reductions in youth and young adult smoking prevalence.
Researchers from INRS and University of Sussex create an AI-optimized photonic chip to customize the properties of broadband light sources, also known as supercontinuum. This innovation enables new imaging technologies and fundamental research into light-matter interactions.
Tropical Cyclone Bouchra was weakened and elongated due to wind shear, according to NASA's Aqua satellite. The storm was torn apart by winds, with its center appearing almost cloud-free, before making its final dissipation on November 20.
Researchers use camera-trapping to study the Annamite striped rabbit in Vietnam and Laos, revealing its limited range and vulnerability to extinction. The findings highlight the need for effective conservation efforts to protect this critically endangered species.
A study published in Proceedings of the Royal Society B highlights citizen science's potential to tackle pressing research questions in agriculture and food systems. Citizen science has been used to produce scientifically robust findings, engage the public, and make research projects more cost-effective.
Researchers from USC discovered that bots specifically target influential individuals who support Catalan's independence, exposing them to negative and violent content. The study highlights the need for regulation and laws to force social media companies to regulate their platforms.
A Malaysian survey found that misconceptions about opioids affect pain control among cancer patients, with fears of addiction and immune system damage being the most common barriers. The study highlights the need for improved accessibility to pain relief treatments in low- and middle-income countries.
A study found that a training programme for caregivers in care homes improves the lives of residents with dementia, reducing agitation and hospital admissions. The programme, known as WHELD, cost £660 per resident to achieve significant improvements, saving up to £4,000 per home.
A new meta-surface technology has been developed to correct for chromatic aberrations across all kinds of lenses, from simple to complex. This innovation uses a single-layer surface of nanostructures and can be incorporated into commercial optical systems, improving performance while reducing complexity.
A new study confirms that women aged 75 and older should continue receiving mammography screenings due to the significant risk of breast cancer in this age group. The research found a considerable incidence of breast cancer among women over 75, with most cases being invasive and treatable.
Researchers found that yelloweye rockfish have difficulty removing toxic mercury from sensitive liver cells, which can cause damage. The study highlights the potential risks of contaminants on this threatened species, with conservation efforts underway to protect them.
A new toxin discovered in Pseudomonas aeruginosa has been found to degrade DNA and stop the growth of rival bacteria, providing insight into bacterial warfare mechanisms.
Researchers have identified a gene called lrrc10 that may hold the key to repairing damaged hearts in fish. The study found that this gene is already linked to a heart condition in people and could potentially be used to develop new treatments for heart failure, which affects hundreds of thousands of people in the UK.
Researchers at the University of Tokyo have discovered that blocking a specific molecule can prevent cancer cells from spreading. The study found that inhibiting tissue type plasminogen activator (tPA) blocked melanoma growth and metastasis in mice. This breakthrough offers new possibilities for cancer therapy, potentially improving ou...
A study by IBS researchers found that Foxp1 protein stabilizes induced Treg (iTreg) cells, which play a crucial role in regulating the immune response. The lack of Foxp1 led to increased susceptibility to colitis and intestinal inflammation in mice.
A study found that automated accounts on Twitter spread 31% of low-credibility information, with just 6% of bot accounts responsible for most of it. The researchers suggest eliminating bots from social networks to reduce misinformation, and propose steps companies can take to slow the spread.
A six-month trial of a new self-management program for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) found it successfully reduced emergency room visits and hospitalizations. The program, which combined hospital-to-home transition support with chronic disease management, also improved quality of life scores.