A team of scientists has developed a low-cost and portable method for detecting nerve agents using a combination of Lego bricks, a smartphone camera, and a UV lamp. The new device can distinguish between different classes of nerve agents and provide quick results, which is crucial in preventing mass harm.
A new study published in Journal of the American Heart Association found that young adults who frequently binge drink are more likely to have risk factors for cardiovascular disease. The research revealed that young men who reported repeated binge drinking had higher systolic blood pressure and cholesterol levels than non-binge drinker...
A new study found that middle-aged individuals with high fitness are 56% less likely to die from heart disease after a depression diagnosis. Dr. Madhukar Trivedi recommends steps to boost exercise success, including consistency, tracking progress, and varying exercises.
Researchers at University at Buffalo developed a system for autonomous robots to behave like beavers, using surroundings to build complex structures and overcome obstacles. The robot continuously monitors and modifies its environment to create ramps and overcome uneven terrain.
The Forschungszentrum Jülich team successfully oriented a platelet-shaped PTCDA molecule as desired using a scanning probe microscope. The molecule is surprisingly stable in the upright orientation and can be used to create new electronic functionalities, such as logic and sensor circuits.
The winners of the 2018 Blavatnik National Awards are Janelle Ayres (immunology), Sergei V. Kalinin (nanomaterials), and Neal K. Devaraj (artificial cells). Their research has the potential to revolutionize fields like anti-microbial resistance, nanotechnology, and synthetic biology.
Researchers discovered heroin addicts have more hypocretin-producing neurons than controls, while morphine reversed cataplexy symptoms in narcoleptic mice. Increasing hypocretin levels may serve as a treatment strategy for narcolepsy and potentially combat opiate addiction.
A large international study found that high body fat in young women reduces breast cancer risk before menopause. Researchers discovered a 12-23% decrease in breast cancer risk for every five-unit increase in BMI, with strongest effects seen in the 18-24 age group.
Researchers at IRB Barcelona have identified the NEK7 protein as a crucial regulator of neuron formation in the hippocampus, a region associated with memory. The study found that NEK7 is essential for dendrite growth and branching, and its deficiency leads to complex phenotypes in mice, suggesting broader roles for this protein.
A large-scale field study identified 143 heritable microbes and a core rhizosphere microbiome consisting of seven operational taxonomic units within the Proteobacteria phylum. This study contributes to understanding the relative importance of plant genetics, environment, and time in shaping microbial communities.
A new study provides a reliable map of Javan leopard distribution, highlighting priority landscapes and fragmented habitats. The predictive model reveals the importance of connectivity between protected areas and human-modified landscapes for the long-term survival of the species.
A new study finds that enzalutamide significantly lowers the risk of metastasis or death in men with non-metastatic castrate-resistant prostate cancer, delaying cancer re-appearance by almost two years. The drug also shows a 71% lower risk of metastasis or death compared to placebo.
The OU research team developed high-resolution markers to differentiate between individual birds breeding in different Oklahoma populations and across the United States. This genetic analysis can help conservation efforts by identifying declining Painted Bunting populations and informing management strategies for the species.
The University of Oklahoma Institute for Human Flourishing will conduct approximately 10 new research projects, producing edited volumes and community outreach activities. The Civic Virtues Project will integrate civic virtues education in local schools.
Researchers simulated future climate under Paris Climate Goals, finding a significant reduction in heat-related mortality if the lower goal of 1.5°C is met. The study's findings highlight the importance of adhering to the Paris Agreement goals to prevent heat-related health impacts.
A new form of immunotherapy has been found to reactivate the response to hormone treatment in advanced prostate cancer, a study in mice and human prostate cancer cells has found. The drug blocks a protein produced by immune cells, restoring sensitivity to hormone therapy and potentially improving outcomes for men with advanced disease.
Researchers found that the mountain beaver's ancestor had a larger relative brain size than modern-day mountain beavers. The study suggests that as the animal transitioned from living in trees to burrowing underground, its neocortex, responsible for sight, may have shrunk over time.
Research found inbred beetles made bad decisions in response to environmental changes, leading to reduced offspring survival and increased risk of extinction. The study suggests impaired thinking ability may contribute to this poor decision-making.
The new photodetector designed by UCLA has major improvements in speed, sensitivity and spectrum range, making it suitable for a wider range of applications including thermal imaging, environmental sensing and medical diagnosis.
Researchers at the University at Buffalo discovered barley as an ideal and safe contrast agent for diagnosing swallowing disorders. The grain's roasted version can illuminate the throat and gastrointestinal tract when struck by a laser beam, providing nuanced and real-time views inside the body.
A new potential combined treatment for Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) has shown positive results, increasing overall survival in tumor-bearing mice. Researchers found that the combination of mTOR inhibitors and Phenformin causes a metabolic shift to glycolysis, sensitizing liver tumors to dual inhibition of mTOR.
An international team of scientists confirmed that ?Oumuamua, the first known interstellar object, experienced an unexpected speed boost as it passed through the inner solar system. The team found that the object's trajectory suggested behavior consistent with a comet.
A recent study found that starting physical therapy within three weeks of a concussion provides similar outcomes to waiting longer. The therapy, which included progressive exercise and vestibular training, led to reduced concussion-related symptoms in both early and late PT groups.
International research found many marine protected areas inefficiently located and costly, failing to meet global targets. The study suggests a more strategic approach could reduce costs and improve conservation outcomes.
A recent NIH-funded pilot study found that men and women infected with gonorrhea have distinct gene expression profiles during active infection, with increased antibiotic resistance detected more frequently in males. The research highlights the need for gender-specific strategies to combat this increasingly resistant bacterial pathogen.
Researchers have mapped the first contact between Plasmodium vivax malaria parasites and human red blood cells using cryo-EM technology. The discovery provides critical information for developing potential new antimalarial drugs and vaccines.
Researchers from Northeastern University developed hierarchical Bi2MoO6 nanosheet arrays (BNAs) on 3D Ni foam, which exhibit a super high reversible discharge capacity of 2311.7 μAh/cm² and excellent cycle stability. The BNAs-integrated electrodes improve the cycle stability and capacity of lithium-ion batteries.
Researchers from the University of South Florida have published a seven-year study on the impact of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill on marine life in the Gulf of Mexico. The study found that fish populations have recovered significantly since the disaster, with some species like the red snapper and southern hake showing notable declines.
Researchers found that `Oumuamua is venting material from its surface due to solar heating, causing a tiny boost in speed. This outgassing behavior is typical for comets and contradicts the previous classification of `O'uamua as an interstellar asteroid.
Researchers are investigating topological materials for their potential to improve electronic performance and storage capacity. These materials display unusual stability even under extreme conditions.
Scientists at University of Wisconsin-Madison used an innovative approach to study the Laguna del Maule volcanic complex in Chile, measuring average uplift of 8 inches per year. The team found that magma rising under the area is causing rapid uplift, but also has a potential impact on future eruptions.
The new system uses round aluminum tanks floating on rafts of PET bottles, reducing manual labor and mortality rates. With the help of an automatic feed dispenser controlled by a solar-powered timer, fish are fed correctly 48 times per day.
A Hong Kong-based study found that nursing mothers who live with two or more smokers are more likely to stop breastfeeding sooner. The study, published in Breastfeeding Medicine, discovered a 30% higher risk of ending breastfeeding before a year among these mothers.
A study published by Imperial College London shows that financial incentives led to a 3% decrease in antibiotic prescriptions for common respiratory tract infections. The reduction was particularly notable among children and those with sore throats, highlighting the potential of this approach to curb excessive antibiotic use.
A team led by Jane Grande-Allen and Dr. Sundeep Keswani will develop computer models to predict DSS lesions in the left ventricular outflow tract, aiming to prevent fibrotic lesions and treat other cardiovascular diseases associated with altered flow.
The journal Bioanalysis has released a Special Focus Issue on biomarker assay validation (BAV), highlighting the evolution of regulatory activities and recent developments. The issue features expert opinions and scientific insights into BAV, including parallelism assessments and clinical biomarker validation.
Orangutans were once widespread and abundant before humans arrived in Southeast Asia, with teeth found among common animal remains. Long-term interactions with humans may have shaped their behavior and ecology, and conservation efforts should consider this history.
A team of astronomers led by Marco Micheli and Karen Meech found that Oumuamua was not slowing down due to gravitational forces alone, pointing to non-gravitational perturbations similar to those experienced by comets. Despite initial classification as an asteroid, the object's trajectory and behavior are more consistent with a comet.
A California study found that student mental health peer organizations increase students' perceived knowledge about mental health, decrease stigma, and promote helping behaviors. The study involved 1,129 students from 12 colleges, demonstrating the potential of student-run initiatives to shape a more supportive climate on campus.
A new study from the American Association for the Advancement of Science found that mandatory labeling of genetically engineered (GE) foods in Vermont led to a 19% reduction in opposition to these products. By providing transparency, labels may alleviate public concerns about GE food safety.
Breast cancer research has long neglected social factors like race and socioeconomic status, missing opportunities to understand and reduce disparities in risk and outcomes. Studies have shown that only a small percentage of clinical trials reported findings stratified by these factors.
A protein called TWIK2 is crucial for activating inflammation, presenting a new target for developing drugs that can restrain excessive inflammatory responses. The discovery opens up the possibility of targeted anti-inflammatory drugs to modify its function and reduce inflammation.
The study successfully uses an air-pressure control furnace to rapidly synthesize Li2O-Nb2O5-TiO2 solid solutions, achieving material synthesis in a shorter period than conventional electric furnaces. The researchers attribute this success to the oxygen diffusion mechanism involving interstitial oxygen.
Scientists at Southwest Research Institute found large, carbon-rich organic molecules emanating from Enceladus' subsurface ocean. The discovery indicates the moon's rocky core and warm water interact to form complex molecules, satisfying key requirements for life as we know it.
A recent study has identified 246 candidate genes involved in dog domestication, which influence brain function, development, and behavior. The research suggests that changes in these genes may have contributed to the evolution of dogs from wolves, making them more active during the day rather than at night.
Researchers present a new strategy to exploit dynamically reinforced multilevel heterogeneous grain structures for high-strength and large-ductility materials. This approach achieves a strength-ductility combination in a single-phase, simple-structured alloy that would normally require complex heterogeneities.
A new study has found that female bladders contain bacteria similar to those in the vagina, with beneficial microbes potentially providing protection against urinary infections. The research could lead to improved diagnostic tests and treatments for urinary tract disorders.
Researchers at University of East Anglia developed a framework for gathering and analyzing local information on city-level pollution. By targeting top polluters in cities, it's possible to reduce national emissions by 30% without devastating local economies.
A research team at LSU's Pennington Biomedical Research Center has been approved for a five-year, $4.5 million funding award to evaluate two treatments for children with obesity. The study aims to determine the effectiveness of counseling by primary care providers versus a combination of provider and family-based treatment.
Orangutans' evolution has been heavily influenced by humans over thousands of years. The critically endangered species can adapt to survive in human-dominated landscapes, expanding their habitat range.
Researchers at the University of Otago are testing Pulsed Electric Field (PEF) processing equipment for large-scale French fry production. The technology enhances processing by altering potato microstructure, reducing oil uptake and waste, while increasing durability and yield of other food products.
Researchers at FAU and ANSER Center investigate singlet fission mechanism, gaining insights into its potential for increasing solar cell efficiency. They find that SF efficiency correlates with the coupling of molecular sub-units, providing a promising approach to boost performance.
A study by Massachusetts General Hospital investigators found that patients believed allergic to penicillin have significantly increased risks of contracting MRSA and C. difficile. The increased risk can be attributed to the use of broad-spectrum alternative antibiotics, which contribute to antibiotic resistance and virulent infections.
Researchers found that people with heroin addiction have 54% more hypocretin-producing neurons than non-addicts. In mice, morphine restored missing hypocretin cells, reversing narcoleptic symptoms. Further study is needed to explore potential treatment for narcolepsy.
A new thermal camouflage system has been developed by researchers, allowing it to rapidly adapt to different temperatures and become indistinguishable from its surroundings. The system, which contains layers of graphene and an ionic liquid, can be applied to a variety of surfaces and is thin, light, and flexible.
Scientists found that late-season replenishment of oxygen allows the Bay to clean itself, leading to smaller and shorter-lived dead zones. This natural response suggests progress in reducing eutrophication and improving water quality.
New Hubble data reveals `Oumuamua is most likely a comet, venting material from its surface due to solar heating. The boost in speed, detected by NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope, suggests cometary outgassing.
A new study by the University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health found that potentially 70,000 opioid-related overdose deaths were not included in national estimates since 1999. Incomplete death certificate reporting hampers efforts to understand the opioid epidemic's magnitude.
Researchers have solved the atomic structure of a brain receptor bound to GABA, a neurotransmitter that regulates calming signals in the brain. The high-resolution structures provide insights into how drugs like benzodiazepines act on the receptor, paving the way for better treatments for epilepsy and anxiety.
Researchers at UCalgary have discovered that the antidepressant mirtazapine may be an effective treatment for PBC, a rare and incurable liver disease. The study found that patients taking mirtazapine showed improved health outcomes compared to those without depression.
Researchers identified a new mechanism involved in age-related memory loss, where specific changes in brain circuit signaling lead to abnormal neuron responses. The study found that an adenosine receptor, A2A, is concentrated in neurons and its overactivation leads to increased glutamate release.
A team of scientists has discovered that Yosemite granite minerals crystallized at lower temperatures than previously thought, challenging our understanding of how granites form and record the planet's history. This finding has significant implications for geoscientists studying the Earth's crust formation and volcanic processes.
A University of Guelph study discovered that muscle sympathetic nerve activity increases in over-trained athletes after overload training, hindering performance. In contrast, recreational triathletes and cyclists who followed a consistent training regime showed improved fitness and cardiovascular health.
A study by Sebastian Brackhane reveals that saltwater crocodile attacks in East Timor have increased since the species' recovery under conservation. The research suggests that juvenile crocodiles migrate from Australia to find new habitats, highlighting a growing human-crocodile conflict in the region.
A new platform enables quick discovery of molecules that recognize specific strains of bacteria, overcoming challenges in developing targeted antibiotics. The approach uses phage display with chemically enhanced peptides, resulting in potent and selective probes against two antibiotic-resistant bacterial pathogens.
Young-Jun Son and his students at the University of Arizona have received awards from the Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers (IISE) for their research on disaster management and hand gesture task recognition. Their work aims to predict human behavior in social networks during emergencies and develop a simulation model to sup...
A new study found increased levels of estrogen in men with migraine, as well as symptoms of lower testosterone. Testosterone levels did increase before a migraine in some participants, and symptoms of relative testosterone deficiency were more frequent and severe in men with migraine.
Researchers at Nagoya University created a composite material that adjusts its appearance based on different types of light and backgrounds, mimicking the color-changing abilities of animals like chameleons. The material features dyes, crystals, and pigments that interact to produce vibrant displays.
Researchers successfully measured the optical excitation of atomic levels in nobelium isotopes using laser spectroscopy. The results confirm that nobelium nuclei are deformed like an American football, with a lower charge density in their center than at their surface.
Researchers studied Bacillus bacteria that produce highly resistant spores and found unique genes contributing to their resistance. The discovery sheds light on the challenges of eliminating microbes in clean rooms and spacecraft.
Researchers estimate that the Milky Way contains about 10 billion trillion trillion tonnes of greasy matter, equivalent to 40 trillion trillion trillion packs of butter. The discovery could have implications for understanding the origins of life in the universe.
University of Tsukuba researchers developed a method to balance catalyst activity and stability in acidic liquids using graphene coatings. The approach resulted in nanoparticles with high durability and similar catalytic activity to expensive platinum-based catalysts.
Researchers at Osaka University have successfully developed a new method for cancer diagnostics that uses single-molecule sequencing to investigate fluid dynamics of DNA molecules in solution. This method enables the detection of subtle differences in DNA sequences, allowing for more accurate diagnosis and treatment of cancer.
New research reveals granite crystallizes at 500 degrees Celsius, nearly 200 degrees lower than the prevailing accepted crystallization temperature. This finding impacts our understanding of molten rock at depth in the Earth's crust, influencing predictions for economically important ore deposits and active magmatic centers.
A new study from the University of Warwick blames macro-level factors for the double burden of malnutrition among adolescents in developing countries. The study found that factors including war, lack of democracy, food insecurity, urbanisation and economic growth are to blame.
Research into lncRNAs is demonstrating their importance in development and disease. LncRNAs are implicated in various biological processes, including transcription, dosage compensation, and messenger RNA degradation.
Physicists at the University of Bonn have succeeded in putting a superconducting gas into an exotic state that allows new insights into the properties of the Higgs particle. The experiments also reveal a way to switch superconductivity on and off very quickly, opening up new applications for superconductors.
A team of scientists from OIST discovered that crater rays form when small objects create shockwaves in the ground, focusing sand grains along radial streaks. They developed a theoretical model to predict ray patterns and even use it to estimate the diameter of lost meteorites.
Scientists developed a wireless tagging device that detects spoiled food using NFC labeling tags and smartphone signals. The sensor can detect biogenic amines, giving decomposing meat its bad odor, and transmits this information to nearby smartphones.
Researchers have pinpointed the geographic sectors that control the strength and edges of the Hadley circulation, a prominent atmospheric overturning circulation. The study found that mid-latitude eddies play a dominant role in the variability of Hadley circulation strength in certain regions.
Researchers have identified specific lipid species in the blood and liver that correlate with healthy or fatty liver states. These findings suggest that measuring individual lipid species may provide a more accurate diagnosis of metabolic diseases such as NAFLD, diabetes, obesity, and metabolic syndrome.
Scientists at Kanazawa University have identified six new compounds in the glossy red-fruited laurel shrub, featuring a unique nine-membered carbon cycle and lactone groups. The discovery opens up new avenues for research into the plant's potential biological activity.
Researchers at Ohio State University found a significant gap between what people report they're willing to spend and what they actually spend in experiments. Hypothetical bias can lead to inaccurate decision-making in fields like economics, environmental conservation, and business. Techniques like cheap talk, certainty follow-up, and c...
A study from the University of Vermont found that mandatory labeling in Vermont improved consumer attitudes toward genetically modified food, with opposition falling by 19%. The simple disclosure reduced fear and increased transparency, allowing consumers to make informed decisions.
Researchers at UT Austin designed a new nerve gas detector combining chemical sensors and photography, identifying different nerve agents through color and brightness variations. The device is portable, inexpensive, and adjustable, providing critical information for first responders and scientists in the field.
A newly discovered wasp species, Dolichogenidea xenomorph, has a parasitic lifecycle similar to the Alien movie franchise monster. The wasp injects eggs into live caterpillars and eats them from the inside out.
Researchers have developed genetically humanized mice that can be persistently infected with Hepatitis Delta Virus (HDV), a common cause of liver fibrosis and cancer. The mice were able to rid themselves of the virus before showing any liver damage, making them an ideal model for testing new treatments.
Engineers used microscopic friction measurements to confirm that rocks can dissolve under certain conditions, causing faults to slip. The study found that brine-calcite interactions can induce dissolution and decrease frictional strength at the single-asperity scale.
Research from the University of Minnesota found that small classes close the gap between men and women' academic performance. Smaller classes do not impact underrepresented minorities' performance regardless of class size. The study suggests other education environment factors affect learning beyond class size.
The NIH has awarded a $2 million grant to Ken Oestreich at the Virginia Tech Carilion Research Institute to study immunological memory. The research aims to understand how immune cells form and transition into memory cells, which can recognize and respond to pathogens more efficiently.
The study found that solar irradiance strengthens the Siberian high and low-level East Asian winter circulation, resulting in lower surface air temperatures in East Asia. This mechanism helps explain the variability of the East Asian winter monsoon at decadal and longer time scales.
The NHS's founding principle of providing care based on need received 23% of the votes, ahead of limiting commercial influence and general practice. The results reflect the public's high value on a non-profit healthcare system.
A large Canadian study published in CMAJ found that trauma to both mother and baby during vaginal deliveries, especially forceps deliveries, has increased. The rate of severe perineal tearing accounted for 87% of the cases of obstetric trauma among operative vaginal deliveries.
A new study by UCL researchers found that artificially lengthening the time it takes to hear an impact can make people update their perceived body height, leading them to feel taller. The findings could have implications for rehabilitation and treatment of conditions like Parkinson's Disease.
A study has revealed that heterochromatin Protein 1a (HP1a) is crucial for the repression of transposons in germline cells, protecting the genome from instability and infertility. The piRNA pathway plays a vital role in silencing transposons, and HP1a's function in this process was previously unknown.
Jessica Irving and her team developed a new model, EPOC, that fits the data better than existing models, providing information about the material properties of the outer core. The outer core is crucial for understanding the history of the magnetic field and providing heat to the mantle.
An international team of researchers has identified the electrical activity specific to the start of migraines and demonstrated a way to stop it in animal experiments. They found that spreading depolarization, seen in migraines, can be stopped with an opposite direction of electrical current used to turn off seizures.
A high level of fitness in midlife is associated with a lower risk of depression after age 65 and a lower risk of cardiovascular death, including after a diagnosis of depression. Longitudinal studies can inform health care professionals about the importance of considering fitness as part of overall preventive care.
A new approach called prehabilitation, combining exercise training, education, and social support, may reduce postoperative complications and hospital length of stay in vulnerable older adults. Two Canadian randomized controlled trials are underway to evaluate the effectiveness of this intervention.
Researchers discovered a brain circuit necessary for unlearning fear in rats. Dopamine activity is crucial for fear extinction, but its specific role varies depending on the brain region involved.
A new type of personalized machine learning helps robots accurately assess children's engagement and interest during autism therapy, with a correlation score of 60% compared to human experts. This technology aims to augment human therapists with key information to personalize therapy content and create more engaging interactions.
Researchers at the University of Washington found that measuring beak size can accurately determine the sex of Galapagos penguins, a simple and fast method for field studies. This knowledge will help scientists study the impact of climate change on this endangered species.
Researchers found that specialized buildings regularly featured in the world's earliest agricultural villages, providing a focal point for everyday activities and facilitating social interaction among community members. The study suggests that these architectural features helped shape human interaction during a period of significant so...
A study reveals that refrigeration suppresses protein activity crucial for banana aromas, leading to potential flavor and fragrance enhancements. Scientists found that chilling bananas slows ripening and alters their off-flavor, suggesting a regulatory process involving MabZIP4 and MabZIP5 TFs.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University and other universities have discovered two new species of extinct hoofed mammals known as litopterns from a site in Bolivia. The animals, dating back to the late Miocene epoch, provide insights into South America's rich diversity of living mammals.
A recent study published in The BMJ found that patients with a recorded penicillin allergy are at an increased risk of developing MRSA and C difficile infections. The risk is largely due to the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics as alternatives to penicillin, which may be fueling the development of drug-resistant bacteria.
A new study found that consuming walnuts may reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by half compared to non-consumers. The research, based on data from over 34,000 American adults, also suggests a link between walnut consumption and lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglycerides.
Researchers at the University of Konstanz are analyzing denial-of-service attacks to understand their influence on politics and international attention. The study aims to map global patterns of cyberattacks, evaluate their relationship with traditional forms of contention, and identify consequences for protest dynamics.
Researchers at CU Anschutz Medical Campus found little association between suicide and hypoxia, contradicting longstanding theories. Social isolation and access to firearms were identified as significant contributors to high-altitude suicide rates.
A team of Swiss researchers used THz spectroscopy to measure the surprisingly slow response of solvating water after changing the charge distribution of a dissolved dye molecule. The study found a timescale around 10 picoseconds, which is slower than expected for liquid water.
A new family of enzymes has been discovered that can convert plant waste into high-value products such as nylon and bioplastics. The research also offers additional environmental benefits by creating products from lignin, a previously waste material.
A new study challenges the long-held assumption that plant-eating mammals' diets can be determined by analyzing carbon isotopes in fossil teeth. The researchers found that the value of these isotope analyses changes with body size, leading to a more accurate understanding of extinct species and ecosystems.
Researchers at Michigan Technological University studied acetone degradation during advanced oxidation water treatment to understand the formation of chemical byproducts. They found over 200 reactions involved in acetone degradations, highlighting the need for models to predict byproduct production from other chemicals.
Researchers at the University of Helsinki have developed a new method to purify nuclear waste water using electrospun sodium titanate, which speeds up the process and reduces radioactive waste. The method is based on selective ion exchange and has been shown to work like commercially produced materials.