By doping aluminum oxide with neodymium, researchers can control phonon frequencies and speeds, leading to improved thermal conductivity and efficiency in thermoelectric devices. This breakthrough provides a simpler and cheaper way to tune material properties, enabling new applications in solid-state lighting and electronics.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have created a self-healing material that spontaneously repairs itself under extreme mechanical damage. The material, composed of liquid metal droplets suspended in a soft elastomer, can reroute electrical signals without interruption.
The Los Angeles Cancer Surveillance Program, managed by Keck School of Medicine and USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, has improved the understanding, prevention, and control of cancer for nearly 50 years. The program is one of the largest and most comprehensive cancer registries in the US.
A new study from the University of Illinois found that mothers who don't get enough sleep or have poor quality sleep are more likely to engage in permissive parenting with their adolescents. Mothers who receive adequate sleep, on the other hand, are less likely to be permissive and report better parenting behaviors.
Scientists have identified a molecule found on human cells and some animal cells that could be a useful target for drugs against chikungunya virus infection. Mxra8, a key to the entry of chikungunya virus into host cells, was identified using CRISPR-Cas9.
A recent study in Current Biology identifies the giant Chinese salamander as having five distinct species, all of which are critically endangered and face imminent extinction. The researchers highlight the importance of genetic assessments and conservation efforts to protect these unique animals.
Researchers use hydrogels to safely remove pressure-sensitive tapes from paper artworks without solvents, preserving the underlying artwork. The technique reveals hidden inscriptions like Michelangelo's 'di mano di Michelangelo' on a 16th-century drawing.
Researchers at UCLA used a bioengineered gel to regenerate neurons and blood vessels in mice with stroke-damaged brains. After 16 weeks, the gel helped fill in the stroke cavity, resulting in improved motor behavior in the affected mice.
Researchers found that combined vascular risk factors and high brain amyloid levels predict faster cognitive decline in clinically normal older individuals. Vascular risk remained a strong predictor of cognitive decline even when controlling for other biomarkers.
The chestnut gall wasp's parthenogenetic reproduction leads to genetically homogenous populations in Europe, posing significant economic and ecological threats. Researchers recommend prevention measures, such as quarantining nursery plants and monitoring new foliage for signs of infection.
Researchers developed a mouse model of luminal bladder cancer to study its therapeutic efficacy, focusing on checkpoint inhibitors and neo-antigens. The model revealed lower levels of immune cells in luminal tumors and differences in neo-antigen expression between subtypes.
Researchers at Drexel University have found that snake skin's unique texture and micro-structure create a distinct friction profile, which can be used to inform the design of textured surfaces. By studying over 350 species of snakes, they have developed a framework for creating 'smart surfaces' with new frictional capabilities.
A new study published in PNAS reveals that a protein called hamartin plays a central role in shutting down the nephron formation process in preterm infants. By reducing hamartin levels, researchers found that preterm babies could develop 25% more nephrons than control groups.
Key findings highlight the need for rapid, well-coordinated responses to future outbreaks; effective communication with local communities is essential for ethically responsible research. The paper emphasizes the importance of sustained international support for health systems in low- and middle-income countries.
Researchers used synchrotron radiations to study the formation mechanism of an aromatic polyimide precursor. They found that a Pd catalyst converted into an active intermediate, which then formed the product through disproportionation and reductive elimination.
Researchers have found quantum effects in photosynthetic systems at low temperatures, challenging the idea that these effects are unique to non-biological systems. The study also reveals that regular vibrations, not superposition, were responsible for earlier reported observations.
Researchers deciphered the workings of a common bacterial switch that regulates protein production, revealing a snap-lock mechanism. This discovery could lead to new antibiotics as gram-positive bacteria use T-box riboswitches to regulate protein production.
A new study has found a significant association between increased prenatal CO exposure and decreased lung function in infants. Infants whose mothers were exposed to CO during the second and third trimesters were at highest risk for reduced lung function.
Research reveals that IL-26 is increased among chronic smokers with lung disease, mobilizing neutrophils and exacerbating bacterial infections. The study provides new insights into the pathogenic mechanisms behind COPD and chronic bronchitis, suggesting IL-26 as a promising molecular target for therapy.
A new study found that a procalcitonin biomarker test had little impact on reducing antibiotic use for patients with suspected lower respiratory tract infections. The trial involved 1,656 adult patients and showed that physicians already commonly withheld antibiotics based on clinical signs alone.
A large study found that even small reductions in heart disease risk factors can help reduce frailty and dementia in older adults. Near-ideal cardiovascular risk profiles were associated with better outcomes on multiple factors, including chronic pain, falls, fractures, and dementia.
Obese individuals with larger waistlines are at a greater risk of developing vitamin D deficiency. The study found that lower levels of belly fat were associated with lower vitamin D levels in both men and women.
A feasibility study suggests that airway transplantation using cryopreserved aortic grafts may be an effective treatment option for patients with lung cancer and end-stage tracheobronchial disease. The study shows promising results, including low mortality rates and successful breathing through newly formed airways.
A long-term study has found that exposure to ozone at birth is associated with an increased risk of developing asthma, allergic rhinitis, and eczema in childhood. The study, which followed 1,881 children from birth to age 17, found that even small increases in ozone exposure were linked to a higher risk of developing these conditions.
Research by Swansea University and Indian team finds that tea leaf extract-based nanoparticles inhibit lung cancer cell growth, destroying up to 80%. Quantum dots produced from tea leaves also show promise in bioimaging and anticancer applications.
Research published in The Journal of Physiology found that exercising 4-5 days a week slows down the ageing of the heart and blood vessels. Lifelong casual exercise (2-3 times a week) resulted in more youthful middle sized arteries, while frequent exercise (4-5 times a week) kept larger central arteries youthful.
A large-scale study found that inpatient opioid use and insufficient weaning before discharge may increase outpatient opioid prescriptions. Nearly half of patients who received opioids during hospitalization were more likely to report outpatient opioid use within 90 days.
A new brain stimulation technique, dTMS, has shown promising results in reducing food cravings in obese patients. The study found that high-frequency dTMS significantly increased beta-endorphins levels, leading to a decrease in glucose and leptin levels, suggesting a potential safer alternative to treat obesity.
A randomized placebo-controlled study found that CPAP treatment significantly lowered resting heart rates during the day and night in patients with OSA and prediabetes. The effects were comparable to those of beta blockers, which block stress hormones and raise heart rates.
A study at Osaka University has identified Sema6D as a crucial protein in the activation of macrophages that protect against inflammatory disorders. The research found that Sema6D plays a key role in the metabolic reprogramming necessary for M2-type macrophages to function properly, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target.
A multidisciplinary lung health clinic has been developed to provide quality, seamless care for low-income individuals with lung conditions. The clinic uses best practices such as interdisciplinary teams, patient navigators, and walk-in services to improve patient outcomes.
A new species of microcrustacean, Stygiopontius senokuchiae, was discovered in a Japanese deep-sea hydrothermal vent. The species has distinct morphological differences from other Stygiopontius copepods found in the Atlantic and East Pacific Oceans.
Fasting every other day impairs insulin function, leading to potential long-term health risks, including type-2 diabetes. This study found that even in normal-weight rats, intermittent fasting diets can cause damage to the pancreas and increase insulin resistance.
Researchers have created a model to capture subtle differences in urine flow patterns using high-speed photography, which can help diagnose urethral strictures. The team plans to develop an app that allows patients to record and analyze their own urine flow images.
Research suggests that everyday products carry environmental chemicals that interfere with hormones, contributing to obesity. By following simple recommendations, such as choosing fresh food and reducing plastic use, individuals can minimize exposure and potentially reduce the risk of obesity.
A landmark study has delivered a final verdict on finasteride's impact on prostate cancer, finding it reduces risk without increasing mortality. Finasteride significantly lowers the risk of developing prostate cancer without causing an increased risk of dying from the disease.
A study by University of Cincinnati professor Jeremy Koster found that NBA stars on losing teams are less likely to follow teammates on Twitter compared to those on winning teams. This suggests that elite performers may distance themselves from their teammates in an attempt to escape responsibility for poor performance.
A study of 30,626 Danish patients found that anticoagulation therapy after stroke significantly reduced the risk of blood vessel-blocking clots. Patients with atrial fibrillation are at increased risk of ischemic stroke, and OAC can reduce this risk.
A study published in Applied and Environmental Microbiology found a surplus of pathogenic bacteria in placentas from premature births, supporting the hypothesis that maternal infection may cause preterm birth. The research also discovered evidence of placental bacteria in healthy pregnancies, challenging conventional wisdom.
Researchers developed bpRNA, a big-data annotation tool for secondary RNA structures, featuring the largest and most detailed database to date. The tool enables statistical analysis of RNA structure formation and may shed light on disease-associated mutations in noncoding RNAs.
Scientists warn of increased infectious diseases transmitted through vectors in the coming decades. The Asian tiger mosquito, introduced via trade and tourism, has not yet filled its ecological niche globally, posing a threat to regional health.
A new study published in Personality and Individual Differences found that users of picture-based mobile dating apps like Tinder do not have more casual sex partners than non-users with the same preference. Instead, these apps have become a new way to meet up, with men and women using them differently.
The Matabele ant, a species of termite-eating ant, uses detours to increase its speed while traveling back to the nest. By taking the quickest route rather than the shortest one, they reduce their travel time by an average of 35%. This navigational skill is unique to this species and allows individual ants to make decisions independently.
The Last Artifact documentary follows scientists as they seek to establish a new definition for the kilogram, with implications for modern life. The film showcases the history of the current standard and the challenges of updating it.
A recent study from the University of Pennsylvania found that dogs born between June and August are at higher risk of heart disease. The research suggests that exposure to fine air particulates during pregnancy may play a role in later development of heart disease.
Researchers confirm that frontal cortical lesions moderate response to prism adaptation treatment, with improvement seen only in individuals with frontal lesions. The study suggests early identification of patients with hemiparesis and frontal lesions is crucial for optimal recovery.
This approach aims to help antisocial young people become responsible adults by considering their values, goals, and maladaptive responses to age-related psychological tasks. It incorporates a combination of psychoanalytic and developmental understanding to promote behavioral change and control.
A study by researchers at Technical University of Munich found that alternative shotgun ammunition materials containing copper and zinc can be highly toxic to water organisms, potentially threatening environmental protection. The study suggests a ban on these materials may be necessary to replace lead shot.
A study found that armodafinil did not improve driving performance or reduce daytime sleepiness in individuals with moderate to severe sleep apnea. However, participants taking the drug lost more body fat than those receiving a placebo, suggesting potential benefits for weight loss.
Researchers from UNC School of Medicine found that natural body temperature affects the stability of a promising vaccine component, potentially rendering it ineffective against dengue and Zika viruses. The study suggests that stabilizing the pairing propensity of this component is critical to creating an effective vaccine.
A study by UC San Francisco found that one in six women who underwent elective egg freezing experienced regret, despite being empowered by the procedure. Women with lower egg yields and inadequate information about the process were more likely to express regret.
A study published in Demography reveals a widening wealth gap between senior households and those with children, with the richest seniors seeing a $3 million increase in net worth. In contrast, families with children have struggled to gain wealth, with many holding negative net worth due to debt.
Higher levels of bilirubin in the blood are associated with lower rates of heart failure, heart attack, and stroke, even in people without liver disease. The study suggests that bilirubin may have beneficial effects as an antioxidant, potentially reducing chronic disease morbidity risk.
Researchers at Rutgers University have created a 3D-printed smart gel that can walk underwater, grab objects, and move them. The smart gel resembles human-like muscles and responds to electrical stimulation, making it suitable for various applications including biomedical engineering and soft robotics.
Researchers at Helmholtz Zentrum München discovered that cerebrospinal fluid flow stimulates neural stem cell division through ENaC channel protein. The study highlights a new mechanism controlling neural stem cell proliferation and has implications for brain function and treatment.
A clinical trial found that chiropractic care, when added to usual medical care, resulted in moderate improvements in pain intensity and disability for US military personnel with low back pain. The study suggests a potential cost-effective and low-risk treatment option for this common condition.
Researchers use NanoFlare to enable biodefree disease diagnosis and progression monitoring, reducing scarring and infection risks. The method provides timely feedback on treatment efficacy, improving accessibility to disease diagnosis.
Tropical Cyclone Sagar appears more organized on satellite imagery, strengthened since May 17. The storm's maximum sustained winds have increased to 69 mph, posing a threat to Yemen, Somalia, and Djibouti.
Researchers at the University of Delaware have discovered a protein, Celf1, that triggers degradation in the eye lens, allowing clear vision. The study reveals the molecular mechanism behind this complex process, shedding light on how cells degrade their own nuclei and DNA without killing themselves.
Researchers found that a shade-tree cover of approximately 30% has a predominantly positive effect on cocoa plants, maintaining maximum soil moisture and keeping pests and diseases in check. This amount of shade also increases animal and plant species, carbon sequestration, and cooling effects on temperature.