Researchers have found that volcanic eruptions cause different impacts on sea surface temperature (SST) gradients over the equatorial Pacific, depending on their latitude. Northern and tropical eruptions lead to El Nino-like warm SST anomalies in the eastern Pacific, while southern eruptions result in weaker warming anomalies with an e...
Researchers at H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center suggest that lowering pH inside cancer cells can slow down the growth and spread of the disease. By analyzing how variations in pH affect metabolic enzymes, they identified potential therapeutic targets for breast cancer treatment.
A new mid-Cretaceous boganiid beetle with specialized pollen feeding adaptations has been discovered, suggesting an ancient origin for beetle pollination of cycads. The fossil provides early definitive evidence for cycad-insect interactions, illuminating the history of complex entomophily in cycads.
Scientists have identified nearly 200 potential drug targets for tuberculosis, a complex disease caused by bacteria made up of 4,000 genes. The research found that specific human proteins, such as CBL, can limit bacterial infections and potentially provide a new approach to combat the disease.
Researchers have developed a new synthetic route to 1,4-dicarbonyls, a class of molecules found in natural products, drug targets, and pharmaceuticals. By using sulfoxides, a type of oxidized sulfur compound, they can create multiple isomers selectively.
Sandia National Laboratories engineers a platinum-gold alloy that surpasses diamond and sapphire in wear resistance, making it ideal for high-friction applications. The new alloy could save the electronics industry over $100 million annually by reducing material costs and improving durability.
A new study finds that abrupt thawing of permafrost beneath thermokarst lakes can release significant amounts of greenhouse gases, including methane and carbon, potentially doubling the release from terrestrial landscapes by the 2050s. This could lead to a significant feedback effect on climate change.
Researchers studied ants' tunnel excavation to understand optimal traffic flow in crowded environments. They found that idleness, reversals, and uneven work distribution reduced clogs and improved performance. These strategies can be applied to improve movement in engineered systems like robot swarms.
A study by Georgia Institute of Technology researchers found that 30% of ants do 70% of the work in fire ant colonies, optimizing digging without clogs. Robots programmed to mimic ant behavior outperformed their human-made counterparts, demonstrating the efficiency of unequal work distributions and reversal behaviors.
African oil palm cultivation could impact primates due to high demand for the crop. The study found that only 3.3 million hectares of land offer little impact on primates, while 273 Mha can be planted with varying yields.
Researchers developed an IoT-based platform called OBSY that improved active learning engagement and outcomes in primary school students. The device, designed to be child-friendly, enabled students to visualize data and experiment with different conditions, leading to higher learning engagement and improved outcomes.
Researchers found that adding retinoic acid to standard-of-care treatment for melanoma can turn off myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) that resist immune treatments, leading to increased immune system activity. The study showed a safe and promising strategy to target MDSCs, which could be a useful addition to immunotherapies for ...
The Hastings Center report explores advanced care directives for dementia patients, childhood obesity, and patient demands for specific healthcare providers or racial/ethnic backgrounds. Competent individuals should have control over life-sustaining treatments, while environmental factors contribute to childhood obesity.
Researchers at Purdue University have developed a method to produce multiple colors simultaneously on an electronic chip, enabling broader bandwidth for sensing and processing information. This breakthrough could lead to advancements in nanophotonics, bio-sensing, and imaging applications.
A recent UTHealth-led survey revealed that only 19.3% of healthcare organizations in the US and Australia have fully implemented voluntary guidelines for safe e-health record management. The study found significant variation in adherence rates across different domains, suggesting factors such as budget constraints, personnel skill mix,...
The Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) will provide seafloor seismographs and technical support under a new cooperative agreement, starting August 1, 2018. The OBSIC replaces an earlier instrument pool, providing unique insights into seismic activity and ocean basins.
Researchers have introduced a new method for making desalination membranes, allowing for greater control over thickness and texture. The electrospray technique produces films as thin as four nanometers with improved surface roughness, leading to better desalinization performance.
Tropical Storm Bebinca has cloud top temperatures as cold as minus 80 degrees Fahrenheit, producing heavy rainfall. The Joint Typhoon Warning Center forecasts a landfall just south of Hanoi late on Aug. 16 or early on Aug. 17.
A new study published in The Lancet Public Health journal found that moderate carbohydrate intake is associated with the lowest risk of mortality. Diets low in carbohydrates and high in protein and fats from animal sources were linked to a higher risk of death, while those with moderate carbohydrate intake had the longest lifespan.
Terence M. Keane, a BU School of Medicine professor, received the Presidential Award from the American Psychological Association for his outstanding work in trauma psychology and post-traumatic stress disorder research. He is a national leader in the field and has published over 300 articles on assessment and treatment.
Researchers at UNC School of Medicine discovered a rare gene mutation causing hydrops fetalis, a fatal condition in fetuses. The mutation impairs CLR receptor interaction with RAMP protein, disrupting adrenomedullin signaling and leading to fatal consequences.
The American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association released an updated guideline for managing adult congenital heart disease (ACHD) patients, incorporating new data and growing expertise. The guideline presents a new classification system that captures complexity in both anatomy and physiology.
Tropical Storm Soulik is intensifying due to cold cloud top temperatures, potentially threatening Japan. The storm has maximum sustained winds near 63.2 mph and is forecast to move north then turn to the northwest.
The 3.4 billion year old Strelley Pool microfossils had chemical characteristics similar to modern bacteria, supporting a biological origin and ranking them amongst the world's oldest microfossils. The analysis also shows that these ancient fossils have survived extreme conditions over the last 3.4 billion years.
The complete wheat genome is now sequenced, enabling researchers to identify genes controlling traits such as drought resistance and breed plants with higher nutritional quality. This breakthrough accelerates innovation in breeding resilient and disease-resistant crops to meet global demand for wheat.
The study reveals that the rootworm uses specific iron complexes formed at the root surface when benzoxazinoids bind to iron to guide itself to nutrient-rich crown roots. This allows the insect to severely damage maize plants and undermine plant breeders' efforts to control it.
Researchers found that men and women show surprising differences in perceiving motion, with men picking up on visual motion faster than women. The study suggests that the difference may be due to disrupted processes in the brain that down-regulate neural activity in males.
A study found that eating white button mushrooms can alter the gut microbiome, producing short-chain fatty acids that regulate glucose production in the liver. This research holds promise for developing new diabetes treatments and prevention strategies.
The ShareBackup system uses fast switches and software to take over network traffic after a failure, minimizing downtime for applications. It can analyze problems, including misconfigurations, and diagnose faulty devices, helping data centers optimize their networks.
A new study reveals 6.5% of people over 40 experience phantom odors, unrelated to odor identification skills. Risk factors include age, sex, education level, and socio-economic status.
Researchers discovered CPEB4, a molecule regulating protein synthesis, is impaired in most autism cases. The study found defects in CPEB4 lead to dysregulation of hundreds of genes associated with autism.
A study by Anna-Lisa Vollmer and colleagues found that children give into social pressure from humanoid robots, unlike adults. The research used a conformity experiment with Nao robots and investigated the impact on children's decision-making.
Researchers from Binghamton University have developed a new manufacturing technique that can avoid the coffee ring effect in printing technology, resulting in improved inkjet printer quality. The technique uses electrospray to add nanoparticles to droplets, leading to more even dispersal of ink and stopping the coffee ring effect.
Researchers develop technique SCAR-seq to study epigenetic cellular memory transmission and find key protein MCM2. They discovered a controlled process in DNA replication ensuring symmetry between two new DNA strands.
Researchers at Kaiser Permanente are conducting a three-year study to examine the role of opioid use in suicide risk and develop better tools for clinicians. The study aims to improve powerful prediction models that can identify patients at high risk for suicide.
Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have developed a new method to diagnose cancer at its early stages using a malaria protein. The method retrieves individual cancer cells from blood samples, catching them in greater numbers than existing methods, allowing for earlier detection and improved treatment outcomes.
Researchers have developed a new technique using 'quantum chaos' to prevent optical filaments from forming in semiconductor lasers, leading to instabilities. The new system uses a D-shaped cavity to create a quantum chaotic landscape, disrupting the formation of self-organized structures and maintaining laser stability.
Researchers created an antilaser for nonlinear Bose-Einstein condensate of ultracold atoms, demonstrating perfect absorption without reflection. The breakthrough can be used to manipulate superfluid flows and study nonlinear optical systems.
A novel finger-prick test is 100% sensitive and specific for detecting Toxoplasma gondii infection during pregnancy. The test can rapidly inform obstetricians about the need for prompt treatment, potentially saving lives and preventing severe brain damage.
Weiwei Zhang, a UC Riverside psychologist, has received a five-year, $1.4 million grant to investigate how the brain supports encoding, maintaining, and accessing precise short-term and long-term memories.
Researchers used a super-resolution microscope to observe viral assembly, finding that envelope proteins are randomly scattered on the cell membrane rather than recruited by matrix proteins. This discovery could lead to more effective vaccines for enveloped viruses like influenza and HIV.
A large behavioral study shows a correlation between higher social dominance and faster decision-making in non-competitive situations. EEG measurements also reveal distinct neural signals for promptness in high-dominance men compared to low-dominance individuals.
Kansas State University scientists have cracked the wheat code, unlocking a detailed description of the bread wheat genome. The high-quality reference genome sequence will help produce wheat varieties with higher yields, enhanced nutritional quality, and improved sustainability to meet future demands of a growing global population.
Researchers at RIT will use photonic integrated circuit technology to improve processing speed and energy consumption of brain-inspired computing techniques. The project aims to realize high performance neural networks using light, enabling applications in autonomous systems, imaging, and cybersecurity.
The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center has renewed a $20 million federal grant to further research and patient care in Oklahoma. The program, Oklahoma Shared Clinical and Translational Resources, aims to improve health outcomes by conducting clinical and translational research with patients, particularly in rural areas.
Researchers have identified a new role for inhibition in regulating motor learning in the cerebellum, finding that inhibitory cell class molecular layer interneurons play a key role in modulating plasticity and learning behavior. This discovery provides fundamental insights into neural computation and mechanisms underlying motor learning.
Scientists have produced the most comprehensive map of a wheat genome, paving the way for more resilient and nutritious varieties. The detailed findings describe over 94% of the Chinese Spring wheat genome, with benefits expected to boost wheat improvement over the next decades.
Researchers found that high-fat diets suppressed a protein called TIGAR, which plays a role in meiotic spindle formation and antioxidant production. This led to increased reactive oxygen species and autophagy in oocytes, impairing development.
Researchers design a functionally graded material to minimize the tradeoff between flexibility and strength, achieving optimal balance in both elasticity and rigidity. This technology has wide applications in various fields, including engineering, medicine, and soft robotics.
A new study found an association between maternal pesticide levels and autism in children, with elevated DDE levels increasing the risk of autism by twofold. The study suggests a potential biomarker-based link between maternal exposure to insecticides and autism among offspring.
A study from Columbia University neuroscientists found that the human brain employs precise logic to decision-making, allowing prior knowledge to be updated based on new evidence. Participants learned to recognize and incorporate bias in a statistically optimal manner without confirmation bias.
A University of Montana researcher found that trees surviving a recent outbreak of mountain pine beetles had a distinct genetic makeup, differing from the susceptible population. This discovery suggests that resistance to the beetles may be heritable and provides hope for managing forest adaptation.
Researchers have developed a mouse model that induces scarring and damage similar to human idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, allowing for the study of new pathways and targets. The model enables the testing of drugs in more clinically relevant ways, potentially leading to more effective therapeutic options.
The international team of researchers presents the first high-quality fully annotated reference genome sequence of bread wheat variety Chinese Spring. This advancement provides a powerful tool for accelerating the development of new wheat varieties designed to address human nutrition and crop resiliency needs.
The discovery reveals hundreds of individual galaxies in the cluster, which surrounds an extremely active supermassive black hole at the center. The quasar's light has obscured these galaxies, making them invisible to astronomers.
A team in Japan developed a new technique to detect and analyze biomolecules with inhomogeneous charge distributions by adjusting the solution. They achieved improved sensor response, allowing researchers to determine the Debye length and map out a molecule's uneven charge distributions.
Researchers have identified a protein complex that helps plants 'switch off' photosynthesis at night and 'switch on' when light is available again. This complex, involving thioredoxin-like2 (TrxL2)/2-Cys peroxiredoxin (2CP), allows plants to conserve energy and restore photosynthetic activity when necessary.
A new study published in Biological Psychiatry found that high maternal cortisol levels during pregnancy are associated with anxious and depressive-like behaviors in female offspring at the age of 2. The effect is linked to altered brain connectivity, particularly in the amygdala region important for emotion processing.
Researchers found that statins can improve conditions in people with autoimmune pulmonary alveolar proteinosis, a rare syndrome affecting 1 in 150,000 people worldwide. The study also identified two new tests to help diagnose the condition and showed promise for oral statin therapy as a potential new approach.
Researchers have developed printable metal tags that reflect WiFi signals, turning everyday objects into 'smart' Internet of Things devices. These tags can be attached to various objects and track user interactions, such as water bottle hydration levels or motor activity after a stroke.
New research reveals that female mosquitoes rapidly evolve more selective mating behavior when faced with existential threats from other invasive mosquito species. This adaptation is driven by genetic changes in specific gene regions and enables them to avoid sterility caused by interbreeding with male males of a different species.
Researchers at the University of Connecticut developed a new method to produce reverse osmosis membranes with controlled thickness and roughness, leading to improved efficiency and reduced fouling. The ultra-thin membranes exhibit high salt rejection and robust performance under various operating conditions.
A study found that individuals shot by police have arrest histories similar to those involved in assaults and homicides, and medical histories similar to those with self-inflicted firearm injuries. The study identified patterns among intent-specific firearm injuries, including increased risk of interpersonal and self-directed violence,...
A new study has evaluated the quality of YouTube videos for facial plastics information, revealing they can present biased information and offer an unbalanced assessment of risks and benefits. The study suggests these videos may not provide clear guidance on the qualifications of featured practitioners.
A study by researchers at the Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciencia found that the Spindle Assembly Checkpoint, a mechanism that regulates cell division, can sometimes be counterproductive. This checkpoint can increase genetic errors when cells have irreparable problems with chromosome cohesion.
Researchers discovered that only small clusters of four silver atoms in a tetrahedral shape surrounded by water molecules emit light. This is due to the movement of two free electrons, which decay from higher to lower energy levels and produce a specific shade of green light.
Marialis Rosario-Franco, a UTA doctoral student, has been awarded the Gröte Reber Doctoral Fellowship to study exomoons in four-body systems and their potential detection by modern radio telescopes. The fellowship allows her to conduct observational research at the NRAO's Very Large Array and Long Wavelength Array.
A study by Uppsala University found that sperm quality varies depending on a male's characteristics, such as attractiveness and age. For less dominant males, longer sperm is beneficial for fertilization success, while more attractive males benefit from smaller sperm.
A UTA professor led a federal advisory group to publish recommendations for preventing acute and chronic pain, highlighting the need for better public education and a precision medicine approach. The report found that psychosocial factors significantly impact pain experience and treatment responses.
A nine-month resistance training intervention improved exercise motivation and planning in older adults, with nearly half continuing independently. Participants who increased intrinsic motivation and confidence maintained twice-a-week training
Research led by Salk Institute scientist Gerald Shadel found that short-term stress can trigger sustained production of antioxidants and increase mitochondria efficiency, potentially extending lifespan. Cells exposed to brief stress showed higher antioxidant levels, more mitochondria, and less superoxide buildup than unstressed cells.
The Phase 1 clinical trial will analyze the immune response and assess the safety of the experimental vaccine, which has shown promise in earlier tests in rhesus macaques. The trial is designed to enroll 28 healthy adults and will last up to one year.
Researchers at KIT have developed the world's smallest transistor that can switch electrical current with a single atom in a solid electrolyte. The single-atom transistor consumes very little energy and operates at room temperature.
The FRASCAL research training group at FAU is investigating fracture processes in materials across all scales, from nanometers to visible cracks. This interdisciplinary study aims to develop computer-aided simulation methods to predict and prevent undesired fractures.
Developing vaccines for human parasites has proven challenging, with key challenges including immune response issues and limited scalability. GW researchers have outlined five key lessons learned along the critical path to vaccine development, aimed at accelerating progress in eradicating these diseases of poverty.
Researchers have solved the structure of a key protein called SWELL1, which works as an ion channel to relieve pressure inside cells. The protein's jellyfish-like shape allows it to sense changes in cell volume and release ions to reduce pressure.
A Finnish national birth cohort study linked DDT metabolite exposure to increased autism risk in offspring. Maternal blood analyzed for DDE and PCBs found higher odds of autism with intellectual disability among offspring exposed to elevated DDE levels, persisting after adjusting for confounding factors.
A new expert review outlines the clinical characteristics of bone fragility in adults with diabetes and provides valuable insights for diagnosis and treatment. The review highlights recent studies on bone mineral density, biochemical markers, and fracture prediction to inform clinicians about the optimal approach to managing bone healt...
A study found that 12 weeks of aerobic and strength-based exercise reduces symptoms and levels of fatigue in patients with chronic kidney disease. Exercise also improves blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetic control, making it a beneficial treatment option for patients with CKD.
The University of Maryland has contributed to the publication of two collaborative papers in Science that detail the full genome sequence of wheat. The research uses this genome sequence to examine gene expression related to heat, drought, and disease stressors, paving the way for more resilient and sustainable wheat varieties.
A novel saliva-based panel is being developed to aid clinicians in the early diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder based on changes in oral microbial communities. The study found altered microbial gene expression patterns associated with energy processing and lysine degradation, indicating potential biomarkers for ASD.
A qualitative review found that patients with HAIs experience emotional responses, including feeling shameful and dirty, and fear transmitting their infection to others. Effective interaction from HCP can provide reassurance and improve outcomes.
The university's School of Medicine has received a $936,000 grant to develop strategies for more equitable food systems in Cleveland. The project aims to sequence and integrate efforts like supermarket expansion, social marketing campaigns, and emergency food assistance programs to achieve maximum community benefit.
Researchers have discovered the earliest definitive fossil evidence of insect-pollination in ancient cycads, dated to 99 million years ago. The discovery of an amber-trapped boganiid beetle shows special adaptations for transporting pollen, indicating a probable ancient origin of beetle pollination.
A new study by Carnegie Institution researchers found that defects in the Fmr1 gene can lead to difficulties in creating large protein structures, potentially contributing to autism-related disorders like fragile X syndrome. The study used fruit fly eggs to demonstrate how Fmr1 helps produce essential large proteins.
Most YouTube videos on facial plastic surgery are misleading marketing campaigns posted by non-qualified medical professionals, according to a Rutgers University study. The researchers found that 94 videos had no medical professional at all, while only 72 featured board-certified physicians with high-quality content.
The Advanced Science Research Center at GC/CUNY Photonics Initiative has received a $3.2 million DARPA grant to support basic nanophotonics research. The team will develop concepts for modeling, analyzing, designing, and realizing leapfrog enhancements to electromagnetic-wave manipulation through the use of metamaterials.
A new interactive design tool, CoreCavity, allows users to create durable injection molds for hollow, free-form objects. The software analyzes an object's 3D-scan and proposes a decomposition into pieces, which can be adjusted by the user, producing mold templates that can be 3D-printed.
A new low-cost whole blood test for toxoplasmosis has been developed with high sensitivity and specificity, making it suitable for diagnosing the infection during pregnancy. The test was found to be effective even in individuals with lower levels of anti-Toxoplasma antibodies.
The International Wheat Genome Sequencing Consortium has published the reference genome of bread wheat, enabling breeders to identify genes and regulatory elements underlying complex traits. This achievement will boost wheat improvement, similar to maize and rice after their reference sequences were produced.
Researchers found that predictable situations enhance language learning in toddlers by reducing the need for them to track unexpected events. This design separated the content of what children were learning from the predictability of the situation, showing a cascade effect on learning something new.
Researchers found Tibetan sheep carry infectious Y. pestis bacteria, transmitted through fleas and rodent contact, posing health risks to humans. The study highlights the need for caution when handling under-cooked sheep meat and underscores the unique characteristics of this region's plague transmission route.
A Yale-led research team has developed a new approach to stabilize high-power lasers by introducing chaotic cavities, reducing laser instabilities and promoting stable beam profiles. The innovative method is scalable to increasing power levels and can be applied to various types of high-power lasers.
Researchers discovered that nematodes undergo complete degeneration of muscles and neurons, only to rebuild them in adulthood. This process may hold clues for understanding human neurodegenerative diseases and developing new pest control strategies for soybeans.
Researchers at the University of Delaware developed flexible carbon nanotube composite coatings on various fibers, enabling the measurement of a wide range of pressure. The technology has potential applications in smart garments, sports medicine, post-surgical recovery, and assessing movement disorders in pediatric populations.
Tropical Storm Lane is strengthening, with cloud top temperatures indicating strong thunderstorms capable of heavy rain. The storm's maximum sustained winds have increased to near 60 mph, and it is forecast to become a hurricane by tomorrow and potentially a major hurricane over the weekend.
Scientists developed a unique organic fluorophore that changes its emission color in response to external stimuli. The dye exhibits two-color behavior, emitting green and orange light depending on its solid-state morphologies.
Researchers found a specific single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) associated with COPD and linked to the HLA-C gene, which presents proteins to immune cells. This discovery suggests a genetic link between autoimmune disease and COPD.
Long-term exposure to secondhand smoke in childhood increases the risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) death and other conditions in adulthood. Secondhand smoke exposure as an adult also raises mortality risks, particularly from COPD and ischemic heart disease.
Researchers have developed a new method for making valuable compounds by combining enzymatic and photocatalysts. The study, published in Nature, found that this combination can create important active pharmaceutical intermediates for producing pharmaceutical drugs.
Researchers found that evaluators consider lower tracks more suitable for low-SES pupils and higher tracks for high-SES pupils, even when achievement is identical. This suggests that tracking systems can perpetuate academic differences among students as a function of their socio-economic status.
Scientists have developed a new method to shuttle lithium ions into the crystal structure of samarium nickelate, a quantum material with exotic electronic properties. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient energy storage and novel applications in computing.
Linda Gesenhues and Markus Höhnerbach receive fellowships for their work on finite element simulation of turbidity currents and portable optimizations of complex molecular dynamics codes. Their research has potential applications in geological phenomena, such as underwater volcanoes and earthquakes.
A growing global population contributes to rising greenhouse gas emissions, while nearly 85 million unintended pregnancies annually exacerbate the issue. Including population information in future IPCC assessments could facilitate more effective climate policies.
A new mathematical model reveals how social interactions influence the emergence of infectious diseases, allowing for better anticipation and prevention of outbreaks. The study suggests that understanding human behavior can aid in preventing the evolution of more virulent pathogen strains.
Johan Torkel Håstad of KTH Royal Institute of Technology is awarded the 2018 Donald E. Knuth Prize for his significant contributions to computer science, including optimization and cryptography. The prize recognizes his transformative techniques that have influenced subsequent work in these areas.
A new study has found that the thinning of the retina is linked to the loss of brain cells that produce dopamine, a substance that helps control movement. This discovery may lead to a simple eye scan being used to detect Parkinson's disease in its earliest stages.
Scientists discover faintest satellite galaxies orbiting Milky Way are among the first galaxies to form, dating back over 13 billion years. The findings support the current model for the evolution of the universe, providing insight into the early stages of galaxy formation.
Researchers at NTU Singapore have discovered a natural plant-based food preservative using flavonoids, showing strong anti-microbial and anti-oxidant properties. The organic preservative effectively kept meat and fruit juice samples fresh for two days without refrigeration.
Researchers found that low-resolution climate models fail to capture the complexity of regional rainfall systems, leading to underestimated projections. High-resolution models, on the other hand, project large increases in summer rainfall under certain scenarios.
Researchers studied hydrogen's transition from a gas to a liquid metal under high pressure, shedding light on the interiors of giant planets. They found that deuterium became opaque and metallic at nearly 2 million times normal atmospheric pressure.
A team of scientists at GE and PPPL has developed an advanced plasma switch that can convert high-voltage DC current to AC current efficiently, reducing the cost of long-distance power transmission. The switch uses helium gas inside a tube filled with plasma, which is more efficient than existing semiconductor switches.
Researchers found that a blood test conducted as early as the 10th week of pregnancy may help identify women at risk for gestational diabetes. The study suggests that measuring HbA1c levels in early pregnancy could determine a woman's later risk for the condition, allowing for lifestyle changes to reduce the risk.
The research demonstrates a novel device structure that allows for unprecedented control over the angular orientation in twisted-layer devices. The team used graphene/boron-nitride heterostructures to show that the energy gap observed in graphene is tunable and can be turned on or off by changing the orientation between the layers.
A Pew Research Center survey finds that majority of Americans accept genetic engineering of animals to prevent disease transmission and grow organs for transplants. However, others oppose the use of technology to improve meat quality or revive extinct species, citing concerns about ecosystem risks.
A blood test using a protein called KIM-1 can detect kidney cancer up to five years prior to clinical diagnosis. Elevated KIM-1 concentrations in the blood are associated with poorer survival rates in patients diagnosed with renal cell carcinoma.
A computerized brain response study of 36 healthy adult volunteers found that practicing a movement makes future similar movements faster due to an unknown mechanism preparing their brains, not anticipation. The findings could help scientists understand how brain-controlled motor responses go awry after neurologic disease or injuries.
A team of over 200 scientists from 73 institutions worldwide has completed the entire sequence of bread wheat's genome, which could lead to higher yields, enhanced nutritional quality, and improved sustainability. The reference genome sequence will enable breeders to develop improved varieties and address food security challenges.
A study of 30,000 pregnant women across nine European cities found associations between socio-economic status and exposure to environmental hazards such as air pollution, noise, and lack of green spaces. The findings highlight the need for urban planners to address environmental inequalities to reduce health disparities in pregnancy.
Researchers designed a computer simulation that added correlated noise to the path of energy transfer, significantly accelerating it. This finding challenges traditional views of noise as a hindrance in energy transport, opening up new possibilities for optimizing energy efficiency.
Sub-Tropical Storm Ernesto's rainfall and cloud heights were analyzed using NASA satellites, revealing a patchy pattern. The storm is expected to strengthen before weakening due to environmental factors, ultimately merging with a frontal zone near Ireland and the UK.
Tropical Storm Rumbia was tracked by NASA's Aqua satellite on August 16, showing large storm areas in the northern and southern quadrants. The storm had maximum sustained winds near 40 knots and was forecast to make landfall near Shanghai, prompting a yellow warning from China's National Meteorological Center.
K-FLEX, a flexible endoscopic surgical robot, demonstrates precise control of 3.7 mm diameter robotic arms for minimally invasive procedures. The device successfully manipulated tissue during an in-vivo test on a porcine gallbladder, showcasing its potential for surgery on incipient cancer cells.
The team found that telomeres are regulated by proteins, including Taz1, which tether internal regions to the telomeres. This process ensures faithful duplication of genetic material. Better understanding of this mechanism may inform research into maintaining genetic information and preventing diseases.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a model to identify cities that can benefit from re-circulating human-waste-derived nutrients into farm fields. This approach could promote agricultural sustainability and economic independence in developing countries.
Researchers have developed a new CRISPR technique that allows them to skip over specific parts of genes that can cause disease. This approach could potentially treat genetic diseases such as Duchenne's muscular dystrophy and Huntington's disease by eliminating mutated gene sequences and influencing their expression.
A team of scientists has discovered a unique planetary nebula with an inverted ionization structure surrounding a central star undergoing a 'born-again' process, which is expected to occur in the Sun's future evolution. This finding provides valuable insights into the late-stage evolution of stars like our Sun.
A study of 300,000 type 2 diabetes patients found that those with controlled risk factors had a significantly low risk of premature death, heart attack, and stroke. Optimizing medication, not smoking, and managing other risk factors can greatly reduce the risk.