The Asynchronous Coded Electronic Skin (ACES) system can detect touches 1,000 times faster than the human sensory nervous system. It achieves ultra-high responsiveness and robustness to damage, making it suitable for robots and prosthetic devices.
A Stanford-led study identifies shifting weather patterns and ocean conditions as contributing factors to the collapse of Mexico's jumbo squid fishery. The research found that warmer waters led to smaller, less profitable squid, shutting down the entire industry in the Gulf of California.
Michelle Long, MD, MSc, assistant professor of medicine at Boston University School of Medicine, has been awarded a three-year, $495,000 Doris Duke Clinical Scientist Development Award to investigate the relationship between physical activity and NAFLD. The study aims to identify biomarkers of early disease and risk for progression.
Researchers have identified non-inherited somatic mutations in the brain that could contribute to Alzheimer's disease progression. These mutations were found to be associated with hyperphosphorylation of tau proteins, a hallmark of AD.
A recent study published in Frontiers in Earth Science suggests that intense storms may contribute to the breakup of Antarctic ice sheets. Researchers deployed underwater sensors to record 'icequakes' indicating fracturing of the Nansen Ice Shelf, which calved into two giant icebergs during a massive storm system.
Physicists have found that by fine-tuning the electromagnet configurations and initial plasma properties, magnetic mirrors can achieve longer confinement times and lower loss rates. This could make them ideal for new particle physics experiments.
A new study discovers complex hyoid bones in a 165-million-year-old mammaliaform species, suggesting the evolution of a loose tongue in early mammals. The discovery sheds light on the evolutionary origins of hyolingual structures, which enable advanced food and liquid swallowing in modern mammals.
Researchers found a positive correlation between passive Facebook use and depressive symptoms in individuals with an increased need for social comparisons. Long-term use of social networks can also lead to lower self-esteem and greater depressive tendencies.
Researchers from the University of Cambridge used 'crystal clocks' to estimate magma storage times near the Earth's crust-mantle boundary. They found that magma can be stored for over 1,000 years, helping improve models of volcanic eruptions and release of gases.
Researchers have developed a new method to stabilize collapsing metal-organic frameworks by adding small amounts of polymer, resulting in significant increases in surface area. This breakthrough enables the creation of mesoporous MOFs that were previously inaccessible due to pore collapse.
Researchers at Harvard University discovered zebrafish choose mating over fleeing a threat when exposed to pheromone cues. This decision is controlled by specific brain regions responding to reproductive hormones.
A comprehensive report finds that facial movements are inexact gauges of emotions and behaviors, challenging current technology's reliance on these signals. The study proposes a new model for studying complex emotional responses by measuring multiple indicators beyond facial cues.
A study by Zoological Society of London reveals 55 UK animal species have been displaced due to climate change, with invertebrates most affected. The research highlights the need for a centralized platform to track and mitigate the impacts of climate-driven species movement.
Research by University of Michigan and Michigan State University researchers found that diversity in science teams surprisingly does not lead to positive outcomes for the diverse individuals themselves. Participants with underrepresented demographic characteristics experienced negative team climate and lower satisfaction.
A recent analysis found that home dialysis use increased across all racial and ethnic groups in the US from 2005 to 2013, with racial differences narrowing. Minority patients continued to have lower mortality rates than White patients, while transplantation rates remained lower for Blacks.
Researchers at the Salk Institute discovered that mammals use a similar 'distributed circuit' approach to distinguish odors, with the size of brain components scaling across species. This finding may have implications for understanding other parts of the brain and developing more efficient machine learning systems.
Researchers developed a new optogenetic technique to control brain activity in mice, recreating natural perception and guiding behavior. The method revealed new insights into neuronal dynamics and the neurobiology of mammalian behavior.
A new study found mothers living near intense oil and gas development have a 40-70% higher chance of having children with congenital heart defects. The study analyzed 3,324 infants born in Colorado from 2005-2011, estimating monthly intensity of well activity to confirm positive associations between maternal exposure and CHDs.
A new species of flying squirrel from Southwest China, Biswamoyopterus gaoligongensis, has been described. The discovery sheds light on the genus' previously unknown range and highlights the need for further research into its ecology and conservation status.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have developed an automated, robotic training device that allows mice to learn at their own pace. They found that cortical synapses are more plastic than expected and maintain a pathway for fast sensory input.
Researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center found that metabolites associated with energy powerhouse mitochondria changed differently in patients who developed heart dysfunction compared to those who did not. Citric acid and aconitic acid levels differentiated the two groups of patients.
A computational simulation suggests that insects can use skylight properties to determine their compass direction with an error of less than two degrees. This discovery could inspire designs for new navigation tools for robots, potentially replacing GPS technology.
Climate change and increased CO2 levels are projected to significantly reduce the availability of critical nutrients such as protein, iron, and zinc worldwide. By 2050, nutrient availability is expected to decrease by 19.5% for protein, 14.4% for iron, and 14.6% for zinc globally.
Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory have developed a novel method to overcome limitations of high-energy X-rays, enabling sharper imaging of complex materials. This breakthrough allows scientists to gain better information about material interfaces and control the behavior of new materials.
Research published in BMJ Open found that countries with strong women's rights had better health outcomes, including lower disease rates and higher life expectancy. The study suggests that promoting women's economic and social rights can have a significant impact on positive health outcomes, even in resource-poor countries.
A recent study published in PLoS One found a link between the gene AEBP1 and severe liver damage, specifically nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. The research suggests that AEBP1 regulates a network of genes related to fibrosis, which could lead to new therapeutic targets for treating liver disease.
U of Guelph researchers found that alligators' hearts become bigger and stronger when exposed to low oxygen during early development, unlike many other animals. This discovery has significant potential to benefit humans, particularly those with weakened hearts.
A recent study published in Weed Science has made significant progress in understanding the genetic basis of sex determination in Palmer amaranth and waterhemp. The researchers were able to distinguish between male and female plants with a high degree of accuracy, paving the way for new control strategies.
Researchers found that a global cycle of matter underpins modern plate tectonics, with excess water in the transition zone of the mantle originating from an ancient ocean on Earth's surface. Komatiitic magma samples revealed significant quantities of water and chlorine in minerals, indicating a 'pumping' of water into the planet's inte...
Research at the University of Sussex identified how genetic variations in two main EBV strains impact their behavior in infecting white blood cells. These differences affect the virus's ability to drive rapid cell growth, a key factor in the development of lymphoma.
A new study found that Canada's high school curricula often fail to provide a comprehensive understanding of climate change, including its causes and consequences. The research highlights the need for accurate and scientifically-based climate education to prepare the next generation of Canadians to address this pressing issue.
Scientists at MD Anderson Cancer Center found that PRC1 regulates metastasis by suppressing the immune system, leading to tumor blood vessel growth. A novel PRC1 inhibitor showed efficacy as a single treatment and cooperated with immunotherapy to suppress metastasis.
A Rutgers-led study confirms the crucial role of viruses in controlling diatom populations, which produce 20% of Earth's oxygen and store carbon dioxide. Low silicon levels accelerate viral infection, releasing nutrients for recycling by other algae.
Researchers at IDIBELL confirm use of PDX models for studying methylation patterns associated with breast cancer subtypes and response to docetaxel. The study validates the models' representation of human tumor samples, enabling more accurate drug preclinical studies.
Researchers discovered that megakaryocytes influence the migration of hematopoietic stem cells and neutrophils in the bone marrow. The study found that large megakaryocytes act as passive obstacles, reducing neutrophil mobility. This new understanding highlights the importance of biomechanical properties in regulating cell motility.
A new model, called the Military Logistics Network Planning System (MLNPS), draws on logistical data and operational information to assess risk and forecast logistical outcomes. The MLNPS can help military leaders identify efficient means of meeting logistical needs and account for uncertainty during expeditionary operations.
A study by Ohio State University researchers found that marijuana users administered more discipline techniques to their children than non-users, including timeouts and physical abuse. This contradicts the popular belief that marijuana use leads to a more relaxed parenting style.
A study analyzing over 2 million spending records found correlations between spending categories and specific personality traits. For example, those who were more open to experience tended to spend more on flights, while those with greater self-control spent less on bank charges.
A recent survey of the Bornean orangutan population in Sabah, Malaysia shows that populations have remained stable within well-managed forests, but declined in areas with extensive oil palm plantations. The study, published in PLOS ONE, provides valuable insights into the conservation management of this endangered species.
The Cerrado, a global biodiversity hotspot, faces significant threats from soybean cultivation. A study suggests expanding the Amazon Soy Moratorium to the Cerrado could prevent 3.6 million hectares of native vegetation conversion between 2020 and 2050. This would require only a 2% reduction in soybean cultivation area nationally.
University of Utah chemists developed an algorithm that analyzes previous chemical reaction data to predict hypothetical reactions, narrowing the range of conditions needed for successful synthesis. The model successfully predicted outcomes for various reactions, offering a time-saving solution for pharmaceutical and materials research.
Newly discovered microscopic protists Rhodelphis limneticus and Rhodelphis marinus have a complex genome and chloroplast, indicating their close ties with plants in the distant past. They are genetically linked to red algae, but show a surprising evolutionary twist, pointing to an ancient organism resembling a triffid.
A systematic review and meta-analysis found that around 6% of patients are affected by preventable harm, which accounts for significant financial costs and can lead to permanent disability or death. The study highlights the need for strategies targeting preventable patient harm to improve medical care and reduce healthcare costs.
A new study found that a HIV program in Botswana increased population viral suppression to high levels, resulting in a nearly one-third reduction in new infections. The intervention included universal HIV testing and counseling, support for accessing care, and expanded ART initiation.
Researchers at the University of Illinois identified genetic signatures that distinguish male from female waterhemp and Palmer amaranth plants, a crucial step in developing genetic control. The discovery aims to introduce genetically modified male plants that would contain a gene drive to control the damaging weeds.
A new study published in Journal of Applied Ecology provides a method for verifying the effectiveness of marine protected areas (MPAs) by comparing data collected before and after their implementation. This approach helps scientists determine whether adjustments are needed to improve the impact of MPAs on fish populations.
Researchers in Japan are utilizing creepy-crawlies to study human disease, develop diagnostic kits and create sustainable fertilizers. Genome Pharmaceuticals Institute uses silkworms to identify compounds for treating infections and boosting immune systems.
Researchers at DZNE associate oxidative stress with the spreading of abnormal alpha-synuclein protein in Parkinson's disease, a neurodegenerative disorder. The findings suggest that oxidative stress may trigger the formation and aggregation of toxic alpha-synuclein species, leading to progressive pathology and neuronal damage.
A new study published in PLOS ONE found that spaying or neutering large-breed dogs can lead to a higher risk of obesity and nontraumatic orthopedic injuries. Dogs spayed or neutered before 6 months of age were at a significantly greater risk of sustaining these injuries.
A survey analysis suggests that the relationship between workplace sexual harassment and women's negative self-views weakened between 2016 and 2018. Reported levels of unwanted sexual attention and coercion dropped, while gender harassment increased as a backlash to the #MeToo movement.
Researchers discover that a gut infection can trigger symptoms of Parkinson's disease, suggesting an immune component to the disease. The study found that infection caused auto-immunity, leading to the killing of dopaminergic neurons.
Researchers measured air quality before, during, and after a large fireworks display in Albany, New York, finding peak levels of submicron particulate matter eight times higher than before. Potassium levels also spiked significantly, peaking at 350 times the background level.
A rigged card game was used to study how people perceive inequality and fairness. The study found that winners were more likely to believe the game's outcome was fair, even when it was heavily tilted in their favor.
Researchers from IIASA and colleagues provide a new tool to clearly communicate insights about carbon budgets, making it easier for policymakers to understand changes in the remaining carbon budget. The study defines the size of the remaining carbon budget by five main factors, including warming expected per ton of CO2 emission.
Researchers found small increases in nonmedical prescription opioid use and slight decreases or no change in prescription opioid use disorder among nonmedical users. Medical marijuana laws had little impact on individual-level opioid outcomes, suggesting insufficient policies to reduce misuse.
The Decker School of Nursing at Binghamton University has received a $2.8 million grant to support graduate nursing students in rural areas, with the goal of increasing primary-care providers in underserved areas.
Research from NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing finds that one in 270 births experience both premature birth and severe maternal complications. The study, which examined data from California births between 2007-2012, also reveals racial disparities in health outcomes, with Black women twice as likely to have a dual burden birth.
A study by IRB Barcelona demonstrates that p38 inhibition boosts blood vessel formation in human and mice colon cancers, critical for cancer growth. The research reveals the role of p38 in mesenchymal stem cells and its involvement in angiogenesis.
A new study reveals that carbon budgets for limiting warming to 1.5°C are more uncertain than thought, with underestimated Earth system feedbacks such as permafrost thawing potentially reducing remaining budgets by 100 GtCO2. The research highlights the importance of considering these factors in climate policy-making.
Researchers examine the potential and uncertainties of genetic rescue, a conservation approach that aims to alleviate genetic problems in isolated populations. The study highlights the need for further research on the effectiveness and limitations of genetic rescue, including its impact on habitat fragmentation and biodiversity.