Researchers have discovered that mesoporous perovskite solar cells exhibit better output stability than their planar counterparts due to the large surface area of the interface. The mesoporous structure dilutes defects, leading to a more stable power output and increased resilience to defect accumulation.
Researchers design a mathematical model that predicts how mobility affects disease spread, finding that daily mobility reduces epidemics in large cities. The model suggests that recurring mobility helps even out population density, reducing the occurrence of epidemics.
A new study found that taking a specially prepared blend of minerals and nutrients can significantly improve women's running performance. Women who took the supplement saw their 3-mile run times drop from 26.5 to 25.6 minutes, with improvements also seen in stationary bike distance covered and steps taken.
Scientists have created new tiny tubes that can help with water filtration and tissue engineering studies. The tubes are inspired by protein structures called microtubules found in cells and are thousands of times smaller than a human hair.
Researchers have developed a new method to power nanoscale DNA robots using electric fields, enabling fast and precise movement. This breakthrough enables the creation of digital memory, cargo transfer, and 3D printing of molecules.
New research published in PLOS Pathogens reveals that certain flu virus mutations can restore fitness by adding a new sugar molecule to the hemagglutinin, enabling Goldilocks binding to the host cell. This understanding improves efforts to design more effective flu vaccines.
Scientists have successfully controlled magnetic oscillations of certain ferrous materials using electrical fields, enabling faster and more precise data storage. This breakthrough has huge implications for future electronics applications, where magnetic effects are currently difficult to write and store.
Researchers at Newcastle University found that a small adaptation in the protein p62 helps cells respond to stress and activate autophagy, a process that removes damaged components from cells. This discovery could help explain why humans have increased natural defenses and longer lifespans compared to other organisms.
A Boston University study identified evidence of early Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) brain pathology after head impact, even in the absence of signs of concussion. The researchers found that head impact caused persistent changes in brain electrical functions and damaged blood vessels, leading to CTE.
The CancerSEEK test is a noninvasive, multianalyte test that evaluates levels of eight cancer proteins and the presence of cancer gene mutations in the blood. The test has greater than 99% specificity for cancer and can identify the location of tumors with high accuracy.
A new vaccine approach developed at UCLA may help lower hospitalizations due to the flu. The researchers used genomics to identify and eliminate the virus' defense mechanisms, enabling a safe and highly effective vaccine candidate that can be taken as a nasal spray.
Northwestern University researchers have created a new battery using crumpled graphene balls, which can accommodate fluctuation of lithium as it cycles between the anode and cathode. This approach avoids lithium dendrite growth, increasing battery performance and capacity.
A new study finds that neurons in mice with Fragile X syndrome appear normal but fail to interact properly, leading to cognitive impairments. The discovery suggests targeting neuronal interactions may be a promising approach to addressing the genetic defect.
A Russian scientist improved nanofluids for solar power plants by adding titanium dioxide nanoparticles to increase heat transfer efficiency. The researchers found that the properties of the nanofluid radically changed with temperature, improving its ability to generate electrical energy.
Researchers used high-tech tools to analyze Amazonian Dark Earths and found lower biomass, tree height, and tree cover at sites with past human settlement. These areas are more susceptible to drought, indicating the forests still show impacts from pre-Columbian occupation.
A recent study suggests that increasing urban forest coverage by 20% could significantly reduce pollution, energy consumption, and carbon emissions in megacities. The researchers used a tool to estimate the potential benefits of additional tree cover and found that each city has the potential to host an additional 20% of forest canopy.
A long-term health study found a 24% increase in cancer risk among participants with severe periodontitis compared to those with mild to no periodontitis. The highest risk was observed in cases of lung cancer, followed by colorectal cancer.
Researchers have identified 52 microRNAs that are decreased in expression as thyroid cancer becomes more aggressive. Restoring these molecules' levels in tumors may be a novel treatment strategy.
A team of researchers has discovered that chromosomal instability can cause cancer cells to leak DNA, leading to a chronic inflammatory response that enables their spread. This finding opens up new possibilities for targeting metastasis in cancer treatment.
A new algorithm developed by Stanford University's Immigration Policy Lab can optimize refugee resettlement, leading to improved employment and integration rates. The algorithm takes into account individual characteristics and local conditions to match refugees with the most suitable locations.
Researchers found that even small temperature increases can lead to near-total crop failure due to invasive pests. Farmers lack resources to adapt to climate change, putting millions of people at risk of food insecurity.
Researchers found that Zika virus infection in pregnant rhesus monkeys caused placental tissues to become thickened and inflamed, leading to decreased oxygen levels and impaired fetal development. The study's findings may provide important insights into preventing Zika virus infection and disease during pregnancy.
A diet high in inflammatory foods like meats, refined grains, and sugary drinks is associated with a higher risk of developing colorectal cancer. Higher scores on the inflammatory potential index were linked to an increased risk in both men and women.
Jefferson Lab's Continuous Electron Beam Accelerator Facility (CEBAF) successfully delivered beams to all four experimental halls for the first time. This milestone enables researchers to conduct more complex studies and maximize research output, potentially leading to breakthroughs in nuclear physics.
Researchers discovered a complex system regulating the same genes in humans and mice, yet evolved independently. Noncoding RNAs with origins in DNA segments inserted by retrotransposons played a key role in this convergent evolution.
Researchers suggest a biological innovation fueled animal diversification during the Cambrian explosion, rather than atmospheric oxygen changes. Tumor biology insights reveal how stem cells maintain properties in high-oxygen environments, sparking new perspective on tissue renewal.
A new study has identified protein biomarkers that can help monitor the progression and treatment of Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome (HGPS) in children. The research found levels of more than 40% of proteins to be significantly different in HGPS samples compared to non-HGPS control samples.
New research by Anglia Ruskin University reveals that exposure to natural environments improves body appreciation and promotes respect for the body, reducing rigid ideals around appearance.
Swedish researchers study hybridization of Italian sparrows from Crete, Corsica, Sicily and Malta, finding independent events between house sparrow and Spanish sparrow. The populations have distinct genetic compositions due to limitations on genetic combinations, with certain genes always inherited from the house sparrow.
Scientists analyzed carbon-rich dust grains extracted from meteorites to determine the timing of supernova dust formation. The study found that these grains formed at least two years after their massive parent stars exploded.
A team of scientists at Princeton University has successfully created a protein that can catalyze biological reactions, functioning as a genuine enzyme. The artificial protein, Syn-F4, was designed entirely from scratch and can sustain life in E. coli bacteria by replacing the natural enzyme Fes.
A new study suggests that the opening of the Panama Canal in 1914 may have led to the introduction of a deadly fungal disease, Cryptococcus gattii, into the Pacific Northwest region. The fungus, native to tropical regions, has caused outbreaks in Washington and Oregon, with symptoms including cough, shortness of breath, and confusion.
Researchers at Tohoku University developed a novel cleaning method using microbubbles to efficiently remove dental plaque from implants. The cavitating jet technique outperformed traditional water jets in removing plaque after longer exposure, particularly on hard-to-reach areas.
Researchers have solved a longstanding puzzle of how cells compact DNA to enable healthy cell division. They found that single cells can compact DNA 10,000-fold by forming series of compacted loops and anchoring them to a central spiral axis.
A new study evaluates the prevalence of scientific rigor in wildlife research, finding that only 56.1% of studies tested hypotheses. The authors outline a rigorous scientific method to produce reliable knowledge, which is crucial for effective wildlife management and conservation.
Portland State University biologist Ken Stedman and colleagues advocate for virus research beyond Earth, proposing NASA investigate viruses on Saturn's moons, Mars, and ancient deposits. They suggest Earth viruses could survive in space and potentially be spread extraterrestrially.
Scientists at the University of Birmingham and other institutions have identified 902 genes related to blood feeding and 478 genes linked to non-blood feeding in the mosquito Wyeomyia smithii. The goal is to isolate universal non-biting genes that could be manipulated to control vector-borne diseases.
A new study establishes a decisive link between immune cells and systemic sclerosis, providing a starting point for developing new therapies. Hundreds of macrophage genes are identified as crucial for the development of the disease.
Research shows that college branding can enhance the motivational significance of marketed beer brands, especially for students who strongly identify with their university. This effect could lead to increased underage drinking behavior.
A new University of Maryland-led study reveals that people with the flu can generate infectious aerosols even when not coughing, and especially during the first days of illness. This finding suggests that airborne transmission may be a significant route of flu spread.
A global study reveals that only 2% of the world's bacteria species dominate soil populations, with implications for ecosystem health and climate change mitigation. The findings have important applications for agricultural soils and food productivity.
A study by Harvard University researchers found that households' payments for medical premiums, copayments, and deductibles pushed over 7 million Americans into poverty in 2014. The study also showed that health care spending worsened overall income inequality, with the poorest 10% experiencing a 47.6% decline in income.
The DeWorm3 collection presents evidence on interrupting soil-transmitted helminth (STH) transmission. Key studies evaluate the impact of biannual mass drug administration and diagnostic tool sensitivity.
A new study reveals that Arctic warming is negatively impacting muskoxen, with juvenile growth hindered by mothers' inability to access food during winter rain events. The research found that even minor amounts of winter rain can have long-lasting effects on the growth of arctic mammals.
Close female relatives are disproportionately viewed as difficult due to their emotional and practical support. Research found that 15% of relationships were categorized as difficult, with conflicts most often with close kin like parents, siblings, and spouses.
Researchers develop a modular 'life detection platform' to directly detect and characterize microorganisms in extreme environments. The platform uses existing low-cost technology in new ways, enabling real-time analysis of microbial ecology and DNA sequencing.
Researchers from Osaka University have identified an antibody that alleviates symptoms in neuromyelitis optica in rats by suppressing RGMa. The study uses a new localized animal model to investigate the correlation between inflammation and motor function disruption.
A new polymer binder allows for a doubling in lithium-sulfur battery capacity even after 100 charge cycles. Researchers designed the polymer to regulate ion transport processes and prevent sulfur degradation.
Researchers have discovered that pupil size rhythmically fluctuates during sleep in mice and correlates with changes in sleep states. The findings suggest that pupil size plays a crucial role in blocking sensory input and protecting the brain during deep sleep.
Global experts recommend a broader appreciation of nature's contributions beyond ecosystem services, recognizing cultural significance and local knowledge. The new approach aims to increase the effectiveness and legitimacy of policies by incorporating a richer information base.
Heavy rainfall from Tropical Cyclone Berguitta affects Mauritius and Reunion Islands. NASA's Terra satellite image shows the storm's center just south of Mauritius, with both islands under warning.
Researchers at Uppsala University have discovered a new strategy to shut down specific enzymes that can help fight cancer. By studying the native structures and mechanisms of dehydroorotate dehydrogenase, they found that lipids play a crucial role in binding drugs to this enzyme.
Research scientist Ekaterina Dobryakova is studying the effects of performance feedback on cognitive fatigue levels in individuals with TBI. The goal is to develop a behavioral intervention that can reduce cognitive fatigue and improve quality of life for affected individuals.
A novel hypothesis proposes that animal diversification resulted from a revolution within the animals' own biology, rather than in surrounding chemistry. Cells with stem cell properties are vital for multicellular life, and tumor cells have developed mechanisms to maintain these properties despite high oxygen levels.
A new algorithm developed by Stanford researchers can help resettle refugees more effectively, improving their employment success and overall integration. The algorithm analyzes historical data on refugee resettlement and assigns placements that project a 40-70% increase in employment rates compared to actual outcomes.
Researchers have genotyped M. bovis samples from cattle in Mozambique, revealing a deeply geographically structured diversity of the disease. The results suggest that the diversity of M. bovis is maintained within regions through constant reinfection of animals.
A new study reveals that smokers perceive the onset of mild and severe smoking-related conditions as occurring later in life than non-smokers. This distorted perception can lead to delayed quitting or screening for serious illnesses, increasing the risk of developing a fatal condition.
Researchers identified specific factors causing seismic activity in Alberta's Duvernay play, finding that increased hydraulic fracturing fluid volumes in susceptible locations trigger earthquakes. The study aims to improve earthquake prediction and mitigate induced seismicity in the region.
A new study reveals the vaginal tract harbors a more genetically diverse HIV-1 population than the blood, with an average of 5.7 variants vs. 1.7 in blood plasma. This finding supports the existence of a genetic bottleneck that filters out variants between the two compartments.
A recent study by KAIST medical scientists reveals that regulatory T cells undergo inflammatory changes in patients with viral hepatitis, leading to the secretion of inflammatory cytokines called TNF. This discovery could pave the way for the development of new clinical treatments for severe viral hepatitis.