The U.S. Department of Energy has awarded Argonne National Laboratory a $30 million grant to study ultrafast chemical processes on timescales of quadrillionths of a second. Researchers will use X-ray free-electron lasers to capture molecular movies, enhancing energy efficiency and applications in optoelectronics and solar energy.
Aryn Gittis' research establishes new therapeutic targets for Parkinson's therapies, using optogenetics to identify a subset of neurons in the globus pallidus that play a critical role in restoring movement. Her findings suggest targeting these cells could repair neural circuit dysfunction in diseases like Parkinson's.
Researchers suggest a system that charges drivers based on traffic volume, improving flow and reducing pollution. The proposed dynamic fee aims to make roads more efficient and equitable for all users.
A new study from Princeton University reveals that a large proportion of internet traffic passes through the US, despite efforts to reduce dependence. The Region-Aware Networking (RAN) tool allows users to reroute traffic, avoiding certain countries like Brazil, India, and Kenya.
A new study by Harvard Medical School researchers identifies three molecularly distinct subtypes of neurons responsible for transmitting information from the inner ear to the brain. These subtypes are selectively lost in aging mice and do not emerge properly in deaf-mouse models, suggesting a critical role in age-related hearing loss.
A study found that the end-Cretaceous mass extinction event led to the shift in dominance from lamniform to carcharhiniform sharks. Carcharhiniforms, including Tiger and Hammerhead sharks, proliferated in the post-extinction world.
Researchers investigate how a group of cells breaks off from a colony, leading to large-scale metastasis. Mechanical engineer Amit Pathak aims to understand the mechanisms behind disease pathways and fundamental cell behavior.
A new study reveals that the Terminal Classic Period drought led to significant reductions in rainfall and relative humidity in the Maya Lowlands. The research found annual rainfall decreased by nearly 50% on average, with up to 70% during peak drought conditions.
A University of Oxford study suggests that some people buried at Stonehenge had moved with and transported bluestones from the Preseli Mountains in west Wales. The research combined radiocarbon-dating with new developments in archaeological analysis to investigate the lives of those buried at the iconic monument.
A recent study found that nearly half of individuals with type 2 diabetes achieved remission after a weight-loss intervention. The research suggests that substantial weight loss at diagnosis can rescue beta cells and reverse the condition. However, only those who experienced early and sustained improvement in beta-cell function were ab...
Researchers from the Institute of Nuclear Physics found no anomalies in a rare decay of charmed baryons, potentially indicating 'new physics' is not present. They improved an upper limit on frequency by up to 100 times, but are still far from detecting any inconsistencies with predictions.
A long-term study confirms that cross-linked polyethylene hip implants significantly lower the rate of repeat surgery, with a cumulative revision rate of 11.7% compared to 6.2% for conventional polyethylene implants over 16 years. The use of XLPE implants also encourages total hip replacement in younger patients.
Nir Grossman's temporal interference (TI) approach stimulates deep brain regions without surgery, offering a new treatment option for brain disorders. TI uses multiple electric fields to target specific brain areas, improving spatial resolution and non-invasiveness.
Researchers found that dark-pigmented yeasts capture more heat from the sun and thrive in colder conditions than their light-colored counterparts. This 'thermal melanism' effect could help predict microbial survival at different latitudes as temperatures rise.
A randomised controlled trial found that care from peer support workers with lived experience of mental health conditions reduced the likelihood of readmission for people who had recently left acute mental health care. The study, published in The Lancet, showed a lower rate of readmission to acute care among participants who received p...
Researchers at Cornell University have developed a novel substance that can be used to power inexpensive robotic devices, enabling them to grip, expand or change rigidity. The study's findings suggest that popcorn could be used to create miniature jumping robots and edible devices for medical procedures.
Researchers discovered a new property in cuprate superconductors where resistivity scales linearly with high magnetic fields. This finding contradicts existing theories and suggests non-quasipartical mechanisms are at play.
Researchers found that fairy-wrens can learn to associate unfamiliar alarm calls with danger by listening to a chorus of familiar calls. This social learning allows birds to quickly adapt to new environments and may be relevant to conservation efforts.
A new type of airway cell, pulmonary ionocytes, has been found to express high levels of CFTR, a protein mutated in cystic fibrosis. This discovery provides promising targets for future therapeutic strategies against the disease.
Researchers found that thin liquid and insoluble films on the surface of water enhance horizontal eddy currents by interacting with surface waves. This enhances vertical vortex flows near the surface, which affects surface wave amplitude. The study's results have potential applications in materials science, geophysics, and ocean analysis.
New research suggests that non-drug approaches should be prioritised in treating agitation in people with Alzheimer's disease, ranking assessment and management of underlying causes as the top treatment. Non-pharmacological treatments such as person-centred care and tailored activity programmes are also recommended for managing symptom...
A new study found that some corals can adapt to climate change, with the mountainous star coral surviving elevated temperatures and recovering quickly. In contrast, staghorn coral was highly sensitive to heat stress, experiencing 100% mortality after just 25 days.
A new study reveals that people are capable of articulating multiple considerations when making moral decisions, including harm, welfare, individual rights, fairness, and justice. Despite the complexity of scenarios like the trolley dilemma, participants were able to provide reasons for their judgments, indicating that moral reasoning ...
Researchers used official government records to estimate a higher death toll from Hurricane Maria, with approximately 1,139 deaths surpassing the official count of 64. The study aimed to inform future weather disaster preparedness and response.
Researchers found that 'acting out' scenarios can improve prospective memory, a skill that reminds people to take action in the future. The study suggests that this technique may support individuals with mild cognitive impairment, leading to safer, more independent living.
A new study reveals that clothing, furniture, and other non-food products are significant contributors to ocean and freshwater pollution. The researchers used a modeling tool to calculate country-specific 'eutrophication footprints', which show that the EU's non-food consumption primarily generates pollution in other regions.
The study identified four fungi species with high anti-cancer potential, including polyphenols, polysaccharides, and terpenoids. These compounds show selective targeting of malignant tumors with minimal harm to healthy cells.
Researchers re-analyzed genetic data from diverse humans and Neanderthals, revealing no evidence of recent human-specific selection on the FOXP2 gene. This challenges previous theories on the origin of human language and highlights the importance of using diverse datasets in population genetics.
A new study reveals how plant-rotting bacteria obtain essential iron for survival by pirating it from host plants' iron-bearing proteins. The bacterium Pectobacterium uses a membrane channel to import the protein ferredoxin, which is then processed to release iron.
A study suggests a simple imbalance in acid-alkaline chemistry inside endosomes may lead to amyloid protein accumulation and nerve cell degeneration. Researchers found that histone deacetylase inhibitors can reverse pH problems and improve amyloid beta clearance in lab-grown mouse brain cells.
The NASA Terra satellite analyzed Hurricane Hector's cloud top temperatures, finding strongest thunderstorms as cold as or colder than minus 80 degrees Fahrenheit. These cold clouds indicate strong storms capable of creating heavy rain.
The study of Flores pygmy humans shows they have Neanderthal and Denisovan ancestry, but no direct link to Homo floresiensis. The short-statured phenotype is a result of recent polygenic selection on standing genetic variation.
A new study by Bocconi University scholars found that broadband internet access causes sleep deprivation, particularly among individuals with DSL lines. These individuals sleep 25 minutes less than those without DSL Internet and are less likely to reach the recommended amount of sleep, leading to significant economic losses in Germany.
A team of Emory scientists has identified an enzyme that removes N6-methyladenine from Drosophila DNA, crucial for neuronal development. The finding provides insights into the role of this modification in humans, particularly in relation to Polycomb proteins.
Researchers used a Pavlovian model to investigate the role of dopamine neurons in assigning value to environmental cues. They found that dopamine neurons can imbue cues with motivational value, driving actions and approach towards specific locations.
A study published in Nature Communications reveals that inhibiting Jagged 1 protein can prevent colon and rectal tumour growth, even removing existing tumours. This approach may offer a promising therapeutic strategy for selectively targeting malignant stem cells in colon cancer.
Scientists have created a comprehensive atlas of the mouse genome's regulatory landscape, revealing how DNA elements regulate cell type identity and identifying potential links to human diseases. The study cataloged over 400,000 regulatory elements and assigned most patterns to specific cell types.
Researchers developed a more comprehensive method for measuring the Earth's boundary layer depth using radar, which constantly ebbs and flows. This improvement in accuracy can lead to better forecasts for severe weather events, air pollution, and wildfire forecasting.
A study discovered that plants regulate their internal 'circadian clock' using sugars from photosynthesis to stay in tune with day and night cycles. This process enables plants to match their activities to the time of day, crucial for growth, flower opening, and energy reserve management.
A team of Michigan Tech students has developed a method to recycle lithium-ion batteries using old mining technologies, resulting in inexpensive and energy-efficient processes. The process separates valuable materials like lithium, graphite, and cobalt, making them suitable for remanufacturing into new batteries.
A new stem cell model developed by City of Hope researchers provides insight into the disease pathway of Alexander disease, a rare nervous system disorder. The study found that therapies targeting CHI3L1 protein may be able to treat Alexander's disease or leukodystrophic diseases.
Researchers found that modern pygmy genomes showed no evidence of gene flow from the extinct 'hobbit' species, contradicting previous expectations. However, they did find genetic variants associated with short stature and dietary adaptations in genes involved in fatty acid metabolism.
A new field test has been developed to rapidly screen dogs for exposure to Phlebotomus pernicious sand flies, the primary vector of Leishmania infantum. The immunochromatographic test (ICT) shows high sensitivity and specificity in detecting antibodies against the fly's salivary protein.
A new therapy using Google Glass and a smartphone app has been shown to improve social skills in children with autism by helping them recognize facial expressions. The treatment, called 'Superpower Glass,' uses machine learning to identify eight core emotions and provides instant rewards for correct identifications.
Researchers assembled a high-quality soybean genome from an Asian accession, revealing large genetic variations and improving functional genomics study. The new genome enables the identification of important agronomic genes and facilitation of crop improvement.
A new study identifies a disease affecting the starfish Odontaster validus, one of the most common species on the Antarctic sea floor. The disease has afflicted up to 10% of the population, causing tissue damage and altering the natural balance in marine ecosystems.
A new carbon accounting system has been adopted by the EU to measure forest management's impact on greenhouse gas emissions. This approach reflects actual historical practices rather than projected future outcomes, providing a more credible solution to account for forest sinks and reducing GHG emissions.
Mangroves are found in tropical coastal settings worldwide and can store greater amounts of carbon than any other terrestrial ecosystem. A new study provides more accurate estimates of blue carbon storage, revealing that it has been underestimated by up to 50% in some areas and overestimated by up to 86% in others.
A new study published in Arthritis & Rheumatology reveals that cardiac magnetic resonance imaging can detect early indicators of silent heart problems in patients with newly diagnosed lupus. The study found structural and functional changes in the hearts of patients with lupus, which were related to the disease stage.
A new tool called DesignSafe is helping researchers improve their ability to predict hurricanes, move people out of harm's way, and build homes that can survive the worst nature can throw at them. The platform provides critical information about natural hazards and enables engineers to design safer structures.
Advanced inflamed vascular plaques associated with progressive liver disease, supporting systemic effects of chronic unresolved inflammation. Researchers test oral delivery of omega-3 fatty acids to treat inflammation without unwanted side effects.
Researchers observe light echoes from Eta Carinae and its surroundings to decode the extent of a historic stellar blast. The team determines that the star released almost as much energy as a typical supernova explosion, but a double-star system remained intact.
Researchers from Michigan Medicine have identified 151 genes associated with atrial fibrillation through a large genome-wide association study involving over one million individuals. The study also developed a genetic risk score that could help identify high-risk individuals and monitor them accordingly.
The study found that individuals from underrepresented communities are more likely to have positive scans and diagnosed lung cancer cases, highlighting the need for more expansive, risk-based screening guidelines. The researchers suggest considering additional factors such as a history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and socio...
A new review questions the usefulness of wearable devices in providing medical insights, citing limited formal validation and potential risks of misinterpretation. The study highlights concerns about concussion detection technologies and the need for rigorous evaluation and regulation of the growing industry.
A new study estimates that up to 1,139 people died in Puerto Rico as a result of Hurricane Maria, surpassing the official death count of 64. The researchers used vital statistics records and calculated an average number of expected deaths for each month before and after the hurricane hit.
Genomic analysis reveals no evidence of archaic human DNA in Flores pygmy genomes, contradicting expectations of gene flow from Homo floresiensis. Instead, the population's short stature is attributed to natural selection on pre-existing genetic variation.
Researchers at the University of Adelaide successfully applied cell transplantation therapy to replace damaged cells in CF patients, providing a potential cure. The innovative method involves harvesting adult stem cells from the lungs, correcting them with gene therapy, and reintroducing them back into the patient.
Researchers at Université de Genève reveal the mechanism of seed germination, where proplastids differentiate into chloroplasts within 48 hours. The process is controlled by growth hormone gibberellic acid and protein TOC159, ensuring rapid transition to autonomous growth.
A recent study published in Nature Communications found that dengue immunity provides cross-protection against Zika virus in mouse models. The research shows that cytotoxic T cells mobilized by dengue infection can combat the devastating effects of Zika infection on fetal brain development.
Researchers at RIKEN Center for Brain Science discovered that male fruit flies deposit droppings as pheromone-laced landmarks to signal their presence, attracting females and increasing mating chances. This finding highlights the importance of fecal deposits in social communication among flies.
Tropical Depression Jongdari is a weak low-level circulation with small thunderstorms and shallow curved bands. NASA's Terra satellite captured an image of the depression, which is expected to make landfall just north of Shanghai, China on August 3.
Researchers found that exposure to household smoke shortens breastfeeding duration, and fathers who smoke are less likely to prefer breastfeeding. The study suggests quitting smoking before pregnancy is crucial for new mothers.
A study in Honduras found that combining conditional payments with investment in schools and clinics leads to better educational and labor market outcomes. The research suggests that this approach can have a transformative impact on individuals' lives.
A multi-year study of Nicaraguan households found that obesity extends the duration of influenza A virus shedding from infected adults by approximately 1.5 days, compared to non-obese adults. Chronic inflammation caused by obesity and increasing age are implicated as reasons for extended viral shedding.
A new study published in The Journal of Infectious Diseases suggests that obesity may play a role in how the flu spreads. Obese adults infected with flu shed the virus for a longer time than non-obese adults, potentially increasing the opportunity for transmission to others.
Researchers at Florida State University's National High Magnetic Field Laboratory have discovered that cuprates, known for their unique behavior, carry current in a non-conventional way. The study reveals that the electrons seem to cooperate as they move through the material, contradicting the widely accepted understanding of conventio...
Research led by LSU Health found that hypoxia decreases Protein S, a natural anticoagulant, increasing the risk of potentially life-threatening blood clots. The study identified the gene regulatory mechanism controlling PS production in response to oxygen levels.
The Iterative Indirect Immunofluorescence Imaging (4i) technique refines standard immunofluorescence imaging by visualizing up to 40 proteins in a single cell. A new computer program, Multiplexed Protein Maps, analyzes the data and generates maps of protein distribution, providing a systematic survey of cellular organization.
A new study using machine learning has identified four brain-based dimensions of mental health disorders, including mood, psychosis, fear, and disruptive externalizing behavior. These findings suggest that psychiatric symptoms do not neatly fall into established categories, but instead emerge from diverse clinical domains to form dimen...
Researchers analyzed genetic data from diverse humans and Neanderthals, finding no evidence for recent, human-specific selection of FOXP2. The study revises the history of how humans acquired language, highlighting the importance of using diverse datasets in population genetics.
Researchers measured isotopes of water trapped in gypsum to determine changes in rainfall and relative humidity during the Maya downfall. Annual precipitation decreased by 41-54% and relative humidity declined by 2-7%. These findings support theories that drought contributed to the Maya civilization's collapse.
A new study estimates that Hurricane Maria caused over 1,139 deaths in Puerto Rico through December 2017, exceeding the official death toll of 64. The analysis used vital statistics records to account for indirect deaths due to infectious disease outbreaks and lack of services.
Researchers found that Cas12a is a more choosier enzyme than Cas9 due to its binding mechanism, making it less likely to edit the wrong part of the genome. This discovery could lead to improved gene editing in plants and animals with increased safety for human applications.
Researchers created a map of over a billion brain cell connections to understand how memories are formed and recalled. The study revealed diverse patterns of synapses that may be key to recalling information, potentially helping scientists understand memory problems.
Research reveals that routine screening and genetic testing can identify up to 30% of relatives with an underlying genetic predisposition to developing life-threatening aortic diseases. This could lead to earlier detection and potentially save lives.
Researchers propose a new epidemiologic triad model emphasizing the role of vectors in disease transmission, highlighting the need for increased vector surveillance and community education. The new approach aims to reduce unnecessary pesticide use and promote cost-effective management methods.
A Stanford study reveals that Native American tribes are increasingly asserting their rights to groundwater, with potential implications for Western US water management. The Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians' victory in federal court sets a precedent for tribal groundwater claims, which could lead to more tribes seeking resolution...
Chronic alcohol consumption modulates host immune defense mechanisms, increasing susceptibility to Mtb and other infections. Young alcoholic individuals with latent TB infection are at a higher risk of developing active TB, according to the study published in PLOS Pathogens.
Worms use two neural cells to perform critical calculations for finding food, employing a 'Hot or Cold' computation and constant follow-up checks. This system teaches us the importance of having a backup solution to ensure we're moving in the right direction.
Researchers have developed a novel PET imaging method that can measure beta-cell mass, enhancing the ability to monitor and guide diabetes therapies. The new imaging method uses a radioligand to identify beta cells and has shown promising results in differentiating between healthy individuals and those with type 1 diabetes.
A Brazilian research team used CRISPR/Cas9 to investigate the Aire gene, which plays a crucial role in controlling aggressive autoimmunity. The study found that Aire-mutant mTECs were worse at adhering to thymocytes and losing their original function.
A study on pine sawfly larvae found that repeated participation in the common defence increases mortality and weakens ability to defend against predators and parasites. Larvae also paid a price for diet quality, growing slower and benefiting from not defending.
A genomic study reveals that insects' ability to detect airborne odors evolved long before wings and was an adaptation for terrestrial life. All insect species examined possess specialized odorant receptors, which were present at the beginning of insect evolution.
Researchers found that Ebola outbreaks have a lasting negative impact on Liberian agricultural production, income, and food security. Despite no difference in annual household income between affected and unaffected areas, communities with EVD experienced greater crop production losses.
Researchers from Brigham and Women's Hospital discovered a neuroprotective microRNA, miR-132, which shows promise in treating tauopathies like Alzheimer's. The study found that miR-132 supplementation reduced toxic forms of tau and glutamate excitotoxicity, providing new avenues for potential treatments.
A DNA probing technique clarifies the mechanism behind clonal reproduction of female dojo loach fish, revealing how they double their chromosomes twice to ensure clonal reproduction. The study also provides insight into the ancestral origin of this population and suggests a method for developing clone fish with desirable characteristics.
A recent study found a disturbing increase in violent and unintentional injuries in the US, reversing positive trends from the 1980s and 1990s. The study, published in JAMA Surgery, examined injury data between 2000 and 2016 and found that injury remains a leading cause of death in the nation.
Research by Hokkaido University found that abandoned farmlands, particularly those without surrounding forests, benefit wetland and grassland birds. The study also revealed that landscape structure affects bird communities differently.
The UCLA-developed artificial neural network device can analyze large volumes of data and identify objects at the speed of light. It uses diffraction of light to process images without advanced computing programs or energy consumption.
Research reveals that tropical pioneer tree species employ physical and chemical defenses to survive, with seeds relying on different strategies based on their persistence time. The study's findings have implications for crop production, weed management, and understanding natural plant community dynamics.
Scientists at the University of Wisconsin-Madison found two genes, IRX3 and IRX5, that work together to construct a cellular communication system in mouse ovaries. This system, involving junctions between eggs and granulosa cells, helps ensure proper egg development and survival leading up to ovulation.
Astronomers have detected a strong magnetic field in a planetary-mass object beyond our Solar System, similar to Jupiter's but over 200 times stronger. The object is believed to be a free-floating planet, only 12.7 times more massive than Jupiter, and has a surface temperature of about 825 degrees Celsius.
The study reveals how a fusion protein found in cancer cells enhances target gene expression by converting microsatellite repeats into active enhancers. Blocking this process prevents tumor growth.
A new study by the University of Exeter found that considering patient characteristics such as sex and BMI can significantly improve treatment outcomes in type 2 diabetes. The research suggests that obese females are more likely to have good blood glucose control on thiazolidinediones, while non-obese males benefit from sulfonylureas.
A research team has developed a novel peptide drug called FFW that shows promise in reducing tumour growth and slowing down the spread of cancer cells. The drug targets SALL4 protein interactions, previously considered undruggable, and has shown effective results in lab experiments.
The increasing use of photo-editing technology on social media is changing beauty standards, leading to a rise in self-esteem issues and body dysmorphic disorder. Researchers recommend psychological interventions, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, over surgery to address these concerns.
Researchers at BIDMC have shown that altering brown fat tissue can significantly impact skeletal muscle function, leading to reduced exercise performance. The findings suggest that myostatin, a hormone normally silenced in brown adipose tissue, plays a crucial role in regulating muscle function.
Researchers discovered a protein called JNK that drives response to exercise, stimulating skeletal muscle growth and endurance adaptation. Inhibition of this pathway may improve response to aerobic capacity training.
Scientists at Oregon State University analyzed 44 years of seismic data and found clear evidence that tremors of magnitude 6.5 or larger trigger other quakes of magnitude 5.0 or larger.
A new study finds that taking responsibility for others is a key trait of leaders, separating them from followers. Most people exhibit 'responsibility aversion', making decisions that impact others' welfare despite personal preferences.
A new study reveals that climate change is altering soil microbial networks, affecting plant communities and ecosystem function. The research found that drought increases the abundance of a certain fast-growing grass, leading to decreased soil moisture.
Research by Professor Rachel Brooks at the University of Surrey found that English and Irish higher education students differ in their political activity, with English students feeling less empowered and pessimistic about being listened to. The study suggests that marketisation in the English HE system has affected students' political ...